Full text · 5 chaptersNarrated in your voice
What it's about
Socrates' speech in his own defence at his trial in Athens on charges of impiety and corrupting the young. He explains the oracle that called him the wisest of men, cross-examines his accuser Meletus, refuses to give up philosophy to save himself, and after the verdict faces his death sentence calmly. Jowett's Victorian translation, without his introduction.
Reading plan
Pick a finish date and Genius lays out the days — the plan shows today's target and keeps you honest.
Read together
Start a circle and share the code — everyone sees everyone's honest place in the book. Accountability, not leaderboards.
Who it's for
- Anyone starting philosophy at the beginning, with Socrates himself - Readers interested in free speech, conscience and standing by one's principles - Students who want the primary source behind the famous trial
