Here is the start of a map or outline of the Apology of Plato.

1. Setting the context in the opening paragraph: “How you, O Athenians . . . . .”

2. Addressing the charges brought against Socrates at the court: “And first I have to . . . .”. He breaks up what follows regarding this into two parts.

2.1 The older accusations: “I will begin at . . . . .”2.1.1. I am not a teacher and I do not charge fees: “As little foundation . . . . .”

2.1.2. I am doing this because of what the Oracle of Delhi said, tha Socrates is the wisest of men: “I dare say . . . . .”

2.1.3.  He explains more: “Why do I mention this?”

2.1.3.1. He divides the explanation into 3 parts: “When I heard the answer . . . . .”

2.1.3.1.1.. I tested lots of people and tried to show I am not the wisest of all: “Then I went . . . . .”

2.1.3.1.1 I tested the Politicians

2.1.3.1.2 I tested the Poets

2.1.3.1.3 I tested the artisans or master craftsmen

2.1.3.2. The result was that I made many men my enemies because of exposing their ignorance: “This inquisition”

2.1.3.3. The young men came to me to listen and they imitated me thereby angering the elders.

2.2 The more recent accusations: “I have said enough”

2.1. The charges of Meletus

3. Address to the jury about fear of death: “Someone will say”

3.1. A man doing good, right and honorable things should not fear death but rather fear disgrace for doing bad things.

3.2. Example of his daimon (spirit) telling him not to be involved in an unjust murder.

There is more to the divisions of the dialogue but this should be sufficient for now to show you that it is a very thoughtful reasoned account that Socrates puts forward in his defense.

He goes on to claim that he is doing God’s will and is a benefit to the Athenians by showing them that they do not fully understand justice and righteousness.

Later the verdict is Guilty.

Then there is the question of sentencing. Socrates proposes a life pension at the marketplace to continue what he has always done. Then in the end he proposes a simply small fine to be paid by his friends.

The jury rejects that and the sentence is death.