The Memorabilia

Public conversations in Athens give shape to Xenophon's recollections of Socrates, whose words and conduct are presented as a defence of his character. The opening addresses charges about his religious beliefs and influence on the young. Socrates appears among listeners in the marketplace and other gathering places, discussing how people should judge the choices before them. His advice distinguishes practical skills that can be learned from uncertain matters for which he recommends guidance from the gods.

The work's four books connect personal judgment with the duties of public life. A discussion of Athens and a rival power turns to confidence, discipline and the need for capable leadership. Farming, building and sailing supply concrete examples for arguments about knowledge and its limits. Readers interested in ancient philosophy can follow ideas through conversation while considering how Xenophon builds his portrait of a teacher through remembered encounters.