Clouds
Book • 2009
Aristophanes' "Clouds" is a comedic play that satirizes Socrates and the intellectual movements of his time.
The play presents a caricature of Socrates, portraying him as a sophist who teaches young men to argue fallaciously.
While not a historically accurate portrayal, "Clouds" offers a glimpse into the public perception of Socrates and the intellectual climate of ancient Athens.
The play's humor and satirical elements provide a contrasting perspective to the more serious philosophical works of Plato and Xenophon.
It remains a valuable source for understanding the social and intellectual context of Socrates' life.
The play presents a caricature of Socrates, portraying him as a sophist who teaches young men to argue fallaciously.
While not a historically accurate portrayal, "Clouds" offers a glimpse into the public perception of Socrates and the intellectual climate of ancient Athens.
The play's humor and satirical elements provide a contrasting perspective to the more serious philosophical works of Plato and Xenophon.
It remains a valuable source for understanding the social and intellectual context of Socrates' life.
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Mentioned as one of the 11 surviving comedy plays by Aristophanes.

2025 Mid-Year Reading Review
Discussed by ![undefined]()

, who plans to read all 11 of Aristophanes' surviving comedies.

Erik Rostad

#251 - The Clouds by Aristophanes
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as a source that provides a caricature of Socrates.

Robin Waterfield

Plato of Athens, with Robin Waterfield