Plato’s Phaedo, written in the early 4th century BC, recounts the final hours of Socrates as he discusses the immortality of the soul before his execution. The dialogue explores the relationship between body and soul, framing philosophy as a preparation for death. Told by Phaedo to Echecrates, it captures the calm dignity with which Socrates awaits his fate in prison. He presents death not as an end to be feared, but as liberation for the soul to pursue truth beyond the body. Even in his last act of drinking the hemlock, Socrates remains serene, leaving a lasting testament to the philosopher’s search for wisdom.
