Greek Philosopher Mesmerizes Bronx Youth

                                      Written by Evelyn V.
                                                 (2004)
     The special presentation of Plato’s The Apology of Socrates at The Bronx High School of Science on March 23, 2004 was riveting and deeply thought provoking.

     Working in conjunction with the school’s Modern Greek language program Project Hellas (funded by the Alexander S. Onassis Public Benefit Foundation), the performance is the artistic product of several distinguished individuals: Mr.Yannis Simonides, Emmy Award winning documentary producer, actor, and Founding Director of the Greek Theater of New York, Mr. Loukas Skipitaris, director and Broadway veteran and Ms.Caryn Heilman, a musician and vocalist.

     The Apology of Socrates, written by Plato in 399 B.C. to give voice to the “real” Socrates, depicts his defense against his accusers. The word “apology,” as used by Plato, means a formal statement of justice or defense. Accused of impiety and corruption of youth, Socrates was ultimately found guilty, 280-221, by a jury of 501 male Athenians.

     Delivering an amazing solo performance, Simonides enters the stage wearing a mask of Socrates while chanting in Ancient Greek. As he begins his monologue, he dramatically removes the mask, bringing the audience to a more contemporary stage. He defends himself by stating, “He does not get paid for his counsel, but simply sees it as his duty to remind Athenians to be virtuous.” He speaks as though stating the obvious, providing strong reasoning to uphold his beliefs.

     In the second half of the performance, Socrates reacts to the guilty verdict. The gong begins to sound, strong and steady, as does Socrates’ voice and the meaning behind his words. He does not plead with the jury to let him live, but rather tells them “they will never find another like him.” He also does not waver as the gong sounds and he discovers that he is sentenced to death. The gong suddenly goes silent, and Simonides’ voice stretches out over the audience. He says that “death is nothing to fear; in fact it might be pleasant…the possibility of speaking with great minds such as Homer and Orpheus would be a great honor.”

     As Socrates exits the stage, his clear voice rings out, wishing the members of the audience farewell with his statement, “I to my death, and you to your lives. Which one of us is going to a better place, no one knows, except the gods.”

     Simonides’ outstanding presentation has all the elements of an amazing work of art. It captures the mind of the audience and grips its every thought. It is dramatic with just the right hint of comedy, making the members of the audience feel as if they were the actual jury. The performance leaves us speculating about the way we should view life and, to some extent, takes away the fear of death.