An Interpretation of Plato's Crito

Studying the writing of philosophers can be complex. It is easier to find meaning in the writings if you are able to pick out the very basic elements. In Plato's Crito, these basic elements are the importance of upholding the law and being true to your self.

The Crito was written in 360 B.C.E. It follows a discussion between Socrates and Crito, during a time when Socrates is in jail. Crito asks Socrates several questions about his imprisonment. Socrates' answers demonstrate that he is comfortable with being in prison because he is being true to himself and the law.
One of Crito's first questions is how Socrates can be so clam and cheerful while in prison. Socrates replies that at his age, he shouldn't be repining at the prospect of death. Clearly Socrates is at peace with his age and mortality.

Crito then says that people may think he could have saved Socrates from jail if he had been willing to spend the money. Since Socrates is still in jail, Crito fears this opinion will make him look bad in the public eye. Socrates responds with a question: why should you care what others think? We can learn from Socrates here - our opinion of ourselves is more important than what others think of us.

Crito goes on to say that "no man should bring children into the world who is unwilling to persevere to the end in their nurture and education". He is perhaps implying that by resigning himself to being imprisoned, Socrates has let down his children. Socrates doesn't agree; he says that he has always been guided by whatever reasons seem best to him at the time, and now that he is in jail he won't put away the reasons he has lived by. Again, he is upholding the importance of being true to your self.