Socrates’ views about death as these are outlined in Plato’s Apology and in the Phaedo.
Socrates had very unorthodox views about death, especially for his time. Much of these were depicted in Plato’s Apology, and the Phaedo. Plato’s Apology showed Socrates views on death at the time of his trial one month before his actual death, and the Phaedo was a dialogue one hour before his death, and his views were consequently different.
Socrates almost welcomed death, as outlined in the Apology, he definitely did not attempt to escape it. As reflected in the Apology Socrates refused to pay a fine, be imprisoned, to move, or change his ways, basically in stating this he was saying the only way to stop him would be to kill him. After the vote of death by the jury Socrates maintained his composure, and courage, he addressed the jury, and stated that at the age of 70 he did not fear death; he believed that it was either an end, and thus good, or a immortality, and thus even better in his eyes. He also welcomed the idea of being able to further his search, and continue on his work. He maintained that he would not beg, or plea out of principle and righteousness.
Socrates mind set seemed to change slightly in the month after to his trial, as reflected in a Phaedo. His ideas, and beliefs about death seem to have been further developed, as he no longer question what would happen when he died; he believed that death is merely a separation of the body and the soul. He also stated that he has been preparing for this day, as he stated philosophy is a preparation and practice for death. He was said to have stated that philosophy prepares the soul for a separation of the body, that which is death. These ideas did not seem to be present at his trial, although there were some actions that hinted towards that.
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