New Accusers

Whereas Socrates' "old accusers" were a collage of faceless individuals (except for Aristophanes) who, through the rumor mill, had discredited Socrates over a period of many years, the "new accusers" are those who currently have brought Socrates to trial. The three mentioned by name in the Apology are Meletus, Anytus, and Lycon. It is important to note that each of these men represents a different segment of society in terms of profession. Meletus is a poet, Anytus a politician, and Lycon an orator. This "spread" is significant given that Socrates carries out his "mission" (i.e. the seeking of wisdom) by discussion with Athenian citizens representing different categories of expertise. In the process he often alienates them by exposing their ignorance.