Athens, 399 BCE. Socrates, a citizen without wealth or political power, appears before the city tribunal. What are the alleged facts? He is accused of not recognizing the existence of traditional gods, of introducing new deities and of corrupting the youth. Faced with his judges, Socrates alone defends himself and warns the Athenians: the philosopher is a blessing to the city and the city condemns itself by putting its hero to death. But the verdict is final: the death sentence. Raised to the rank of founding myth of philosophy, the Apology of Socrates sets out the requirements of a virtuous life as defended by Socrates: love of knowledge, concern for truth, search for the right act and word.