Biography:
Socrates was a famous Greek Philosopher. He was born in 470-399 BC, in Deme Alopece, Athens. He is best known as the founder of Western Philosophy. His father’s name is Sophroniscus who is a stoneworker of his time, and his mother’s name is Phaenarete. Socrates started his early education in Athens, where he learned reading and writing skills. His main interests are Epistemology, Ethics, and Teleology.
He had two wives one was Xanthippe and the other was the daughter of Aristides. He was the father of 3 sons. Socrates died in 399 BC in jail, when he was 71 years old in Athene.
Quick Facts about Socrates Biography
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Socrates |
| Birth | Around 470–469 BC in Athens, Greece |
| Parents | Sophroniscus (father), a stoneworker; Phaenarete (mother), a midwife |
| Citizenship | Athenian |
| Education | Basic literacy skills, followed Athenian education customs; received additional education in gymnastics, poetry, and music |
| Marriages | Married twice; first marriage possibly to Xanthippe; second marriage to a daughter of Aristides, an Athenian statesman |
| Children | Three sons with Xanthippe |
| Military Service | Served during the Peloponnesian War; distinguished himself in three campaigns, according to Plato |
| Appearance | Notoriously ugly with a flat turned-up nose, bulging eyes, and a large belly; indifferent to personal hygiene and appearance, dressed modestly |
| Personal Habits | Moderated eating, drinking, and sexual activity; indifferent to material pleasures; attracted to youth for educating their souls |
| Political Stance | Did not take sides in the Athenian political rivalry between democrats and oligarchs; criticized both sides |
| Death | Sentenced to death in 399 BC after a trial for impiety and corrupting the youth; died by drinking poison hemlock in prison, refusing escape opportunities |
| Last Words | “Crito, we owe a rooster to Asclepius. Don’t forget to pay the debt.” |
Quotes, Death, & Legacy
| Profession | The central figure in the Western philosophical tradition |
| Philosophical Focus | Ethics, virtue, and the examined life |
| Teaching Method | Socratic method – dialogue and elenchus |
| Famous Quotes | “The unexamined life is not worth living.” |
| Trial and Death | Accused in 399 BC, sentenced to death, refused escape |
| Influence on Philosophy | The founder of Western philosophy influenced Plato |
| Written Records | Authored no texts; known through Plato, Xenophon |
| Socratic Problem | Founder of Western philosophy influenced Plato |
| Legacy | Continues to influence modern philosophy |
| Contemporaries | Plato, Xenophon, Aristophanes, Aristotle |
| Historical Significance | Potentially a stonemason; the exact profession uncertain |
FAQs about Socrates Biography
What is the full name of Socrates?
The full name of Socrates is Socrates.
What is the profession of Socrates?
Socrates’s profession is a philosopher.
What is the age of Socrates?
The age of Socrates is 71, and he lived from 470 to 399 BC.
What is the height of Socrates?
The height of Socrates is unknown.
What is the weight of Socrates?
The weight of Socrates is unknown.
Who is Socrates’s wife?
Socrates’s wife is Xanthippe.
Who are Socrates’s parents?
Socrates’s parents are Sophroniscus and Phaenarete.
Who are Socrates’s siblings?
Socrates’s siblings are unknown.
What is the net worth of Socrates?
The net worth of Socrates is unknown.
What is the education of Socrates?
The education of Socrates followed the laws and customs of Athens, including basic skills in reading, writing, and additional lessons in various fields.
What are the major awards Socrates received?
Socrates did not receive any major awards.
