In 399 BCE, in Athens, Socrates appeared before the city tribunal. Accused of not recognizing the existence of traditional gods, of creating new deities and of corrupting youth, he is condemned to death. We have few testimonies left of his trial, but the one that Plato gives us in the Apology of Socrates elevates to the rank of founding myth of philosophy a fact that could have remained banal in the light of history. Faced with his judges, Socrates leads his defense by invoking the practice of philosophy, which alone makes life worth living. Later, in the prison where he awaits his execution, Socrates confronts his friend Crito, who suggests that he flee, with the philosopher's verdict: it is better to face death than to contravene the laws of the city and thus commit injustice. If we believe Plato, Socrates had to die for philosophy to live.