APPROACH TO PROBLEM 2: Examine trial in historical context Trial of Socrates: Recent overthrows of Athenian democracy (411 to 410 BC and 404 to 403 BC) involving former students of Socrates ---especially bloody rule of "30 Tyrants" from 404 to 403 ---executions and banishments (but Socrates, unharmed remained in Athens) ---led by pupils of Socrates (Critias, the uncle of Plato's mother) ---after democracy restored, Socrates resumed anti-democratic teachings Trial of Jesus: In 63 BC, Roman general Pompey captured Jerusalem and rule of Palestine by Jewish priests came to end ---Rome began appointing high priests, who juggled interests of Rome (taxes, etc) and Jewish population ---Jewish uprisings in 6 AD in opposition to Roman policy (especially property tax) ---crucifixion of 2,000 Jews, perhaps 20,000 sold into slavery ---armed resistance groups (Zealots) form, as well as apocalyptic movements (John the Baptist) ---John the Baptist executed and Jesus became leader of Jewish nationalist group |