"The Death of Socrates" by Jacques-Louis David captures the final moments of the philosopher Socrates, sentenced to death by poison for his beliefs. With calm resolve, Socrates accepts his fate while discussing the immortality of the soul with his disciples. The grief-stricken followers surround him, each embodying different aspects of sorrow and contemplation.
In this poignant scene, Plato, depicted as an old man despite being only 28, sits by the bed. Socrates, holding the cup of hemlock, prepares to drink as his wife looks back at the room. David's masterful use of light and composition highlights the stoic courage of Socrates and the emotional turmoil of his disciples, immortalizing this significant moment in history.
