Book of the Week - The Hemlock Cup: Socrates, Athens and the Search for the Good Life - Episode 5

Written by Bettany Hughes. Socrates lived in a city that nurtured the key ingredients of contemporary civilisation - democracy, liberty, science, drama, rational thought- yet, as he wrote nothing in his lifetime, he himself is an enigmatic figure. "The Hemlock Cup" tells his story, setting him in the context of the Eastern Mediterranean that was his home, and dealing with him as he himself dealt with the world. The Spartans break down Athenian walls and Socrates is barred from associating with the city's youth. His card is marked. Abridged by Libby Spurrier Reader: Bettany Hughes Producer: Joanna Green A Pier production for BBC Radio 4.