They lead Socrates out. Anitus continues.)
August Areopagus, instituted by heaven, you have heard him. This
dangerous man denies that the Sun turns, and that you are filled with
Divine Right. If these horrible opinions spread, no more magistrates,
no more Sun; you will no longer be those judges established by the
fundamental laws of Minerva; you are no longer masters of the state,
you must no longer judge except by following the laws. And if you
depend on the laws, you are ruined. Punish the rebellion, avenge
heaven and earth. I am leaving: Fear the anger of the gods if Socrates
remains alive.
(Anitus leaves and the judges opine.)
A JUDGE:
I don't wish a quarrel with Anitus; he's a man much to be feared. If
it were only a question of the gods it would still be overlooked.
A JUDGE: (to whom he just spoke)
Between ourselves, Socrates is right. But he's wrong to be right so
publicly. I don't make more of the case of Ceres or Neptune than he
does. But he ought not to say before the whole Areopagus what should
only be whispered in the ear. Where, after all, is the evil in
poisoning a philosopher, especially when he's old and ugly?
ANOTHER JUDGE:
If there is injustice in condemning Socrates, That's Anitus' affair.
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