The Apology

Xenophon of Athens (circa 430 – 354 B.C.) was a Greek poet, historian, soldier and philosopher who lived at a time of momentous events in Ancient Greek history. Although he was recognized as a great writer and poet in his lifetime, Xenophon’s involvement with Spartan politics and fighting led to his exile from Athens, and his association with Socrates probably did not help. The Apology describes Socrates’ mindset as he faced his trial.  He decided it was better to die before he became senile, and thus did not exhibit any humility before the judges.


Xenophon is best remembered for his writing. In addition to writing about the philosophy of Socrates, he also wrote about the Peloponnesian War between Athens and Sparta, as well as the Persian expedition that formed the basis of his most famous work, Anabasis. In addition to his own works, he influenced the account of the Peloponnesian War written by the famous Greek historian Thucydides.  His short treatise on Sparta’s government is considered one of the finest examples of political philosophy.


This edition of The Apology includes pictures of Xenophon and other famous Greek philosophers, as well as a Table of Contents.