The Hemlock Cup cover art

The Hemlock Cup

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The Hemlock Cup

By: Bettany Hughes
Narrated by: Bettany Hughes
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About this listen

 'Terrific and passionate writing about a philosopher whose heroism is unquestionable . . . and as lively and learned an introduction to classical Athens as you could want' - Daily Telegraph

In The Hemlock Cup, award-winning historian Bettany Hughes brings to vivid life one of the most influential thinkers the world has ever known: Socrates of Athens. A maverick philosopher who philosophised in squares and public arenas rather than the courts of kings, Socrates left his indelible mark on the entirety of Western civilisation - yet the life of the man himself is shrouded in mystery.

What would life have been like in the Athens of Socrates's youth? How did the Socratic method come to dominate the way we think and learn? And what can Socrates teach us about how we should live? Drawing on fresh evidence and the latest archaeological discoveries, Bettany Hughes finally gives Socrates the biography he deserves - and shows just how relevant he remains to this day.©2025 Bettany Hughes Ancient Epistemology Ethics & Morality Europe Greece Military & War Philosophers Philosophy Professionals & Academics Ancient History Ancient Greece

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All stars
Most relevant
Sokrates placed in his historical context: the highs n lows of democracy, the emergence of the modern mind, and the long drawn out Peloponnesian war. Really well structured.

Brilliant

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Epic in the true sense. These days more important than ever ! I wonder if our Social Media “democracy” and USA imperial rule will not end up in a similar bloodbath.

Socrates, Tyranny of Demagogy and the Imperialism of the Athenian Democracy as you have never experienced it! A terrific read!

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Information linked together thoughtfully and emotionally to give a sense of Socrates world, ethos and spirit. Delightful stories.

Thoughtful, context rich, and poetic

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