Here we have two books: Plato’s The Last Days of Socrates and Xenophon’s Conversations of Socrates. Together offer a full surviving portrait of the philosopher’s life, ideas, and death.
Plato’s volume presents a dramatic and philosophical narrative of Socrates’ final days through four dialogues — Euthyphro, Apology, Crito, and Phaedo — tracing his calm reasoning before trial, his fearless defence in court, his moral refusal to escape prison, and his serene discussion of the soul before drinking the hemlock.
Xenophon’s collection complements this by portraying a more practical, down-to-earth Socrates in conversation with friends and students. Through Memorabilia and his own Apology, we see a man devoted to virtue, self-discipline, and rational living rather than mystical speculation. Reading both, you learn not only why Socrates was condemned but what made his way of thinking — the examined life, ethical integrity, and courage in the face of death — the foundation of Western philosophy.
Plato's "The Last days of Socrates" consists of four dialogues: Euthyphro, Apology, Crito, and Phaedo. These dialogues provide a detailed account of Socrates' trial, his defense against the charges brought against him, and his final moments before execution.
Conversations of Socrates (also known as Memorabilia) - Xenophon
Is a collection of dialogues and recollections that defend Socrates against the accusations that led to his trial and execution. Through a series of discussions with friends, critics, and students, Xenophon portrays Socrates as a wise, practical, and deeply moral teacher devoted to self-knowledge, virtue, and the improvement of others. The work emphasizes Socrates’ piety, rational approach to ethics, and his belief that knowledge and virtue are inseparable. Rather than focusing on abstract philosophy, Xenophon presents a more down-to-earth Socrates who offers guidance on everyday conduct, leadership, friendship, and the pursuit of the good life.