Classical Greek philosophy and culture

Socrates (c. 470-399 BCE), an Athenian citizen, developed a method of philosophical inquiry based on dialogue and systematic questioning (elenchus), aimed at critically examining concepts such as virtue and justice. He left no written work, so his thought is known chiefly through the writings of his disciples, especially Plato and Xenophon. In 399 BCE he was tried and sentenced to death in Athens, accused of impiety and of corrupting the youth.