Socrates

"Socrates" by Voltaire is a thought-provoking play, unfolding during the Enlightenment, that uses the trial of the famous philosopher to examine fairness, goodness, and right versus wrong. Socrates finds himself in trouble with powerful Athenians, including a high priest and a judge, because his lessons go against the leaders' power and influence the youth of Athens. In his defense, Socrates talks about his belief in one God and how being good is more important than being rich. His students, Aglaea and Sophronine, show how Socrates influences the next generation. Even though his enemies and the unfair society cause his downfall, Socrates' strong belief in truth shows through, affecting those around him and questioning the honesty of those in charge.