Welcome to the Journey of Socrates: Did People in Ancient Greece Like Him?

Socrates is one of the most influential figures in the history of philosophy. However, his legacy was not universally accepted in ancient Greece during his lifetime. This article delves into the complex public opinion of Socrates and how his teachings and personality influenced his relationship with the Athenians.

Public Divisions in Ancient Greece

The opinions of the Athenians towards Socrates were divided, much like the jury votes during his trial, with about 50 percent of the citizens either supporting or opposing him. After his trial in the Apologetic speech, Socrates faced significant opposition, both through his trial and his eventual ution.

Alcabaidies and Socrates' Impact

Interestingly, Socrates' influence extended beyond philosophy to stories of heroic deeds. For instance, a story from Alcabaidies recounts how Socrates' qualities and teachings inspired Alcabaidies to save him and another man. This act of heroism brought Socrates into a personal relationship, but it also led to a tragic attitude among the Athenians about Socrates. In response, Socrates chose to flee to Sparta, an act that likely contributed to Athens' success in the Peloponnesian Wars and ultimately laid the foundation for Alexander the Great's conquests, as well as the Western world's cultural renaissance.

Love and Respect from the Youth in Athens

Despite the mixed opinions among the general population, it is indeed true that many young Athenians admired and respected Socrates. This was because Socrates was perceived as being different from the other adults. Unlike others, he spoke the truth and refused to parrot the usual platitudes that adults often used to justify their greed, selfishness, and sometimes, moral misconduct.

Charges and Admiration

Many Athenians believed that Socrates was corrupting the youth and undermining their religious beliefs. This led to a decision by the majority of Athenian voters to sentence him to ution. However, there was a significant number of Athenians, including his students like Plato, who recognized Socrates as a great philosopher.

Controversy and Personal Relationships

Socrates was a deeply controversial figure, both during his lifetime and in the years following. His teaching style, which involved continuous questioning and dialogue, often angered or frustrated the elite Athenians. The Sophists, who claimed wisdom as their birthright, were particularly antagonistic towards him.

Personal relationships with Socrates were also challenging. His wife, Xanthippe, is known for her tempestuous nature, which often led to physical abuse. However, Socrates tolerated her behavior, explaining that one would endure a hissing goose if it provided good eggs. It’s tempting to view his tolerance as a cynical response, suggesting that one might become a philosopher to deal with difficult partners!

Divisiveness and Perception

Both supporters and opponents contributed to Socrates’ divided legacy. A significant portion of the Athenian society, including the youth, admired him. They appreciated his outspoken nature, lively wit, and humor, as well as his charming and provocative approach to criticizing the smug and orthodox members of the society. Socrates was indeed a gadfly, as he himself referred to, pushing against the status quo.

On the other hand, there were those who deeply resented or hated him. Some had experienced the sting of his intellectual challenges, and others were too conservative to accept a man who equated his personal inner demon with the prestigious Oracle of Delphi. The association of some of his friends and acquaintances, such as Critias, with the Spartan regime and the Thirty Tyrants further polarized public opinion. This, along with the political situation after the Thirty Tyrants fell, ultimately led to his trial and ution.

Understanding the mixed public opinion about Socrates helps us appreciate the complex atmosphere of ancient Greece. Through his life and teachings, Socrates continues to inspire and challenge us, reflecting the perpetual struggle between tradition and innovation in philosophical and cultural discourse.