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Question one
How does Phaedrus respond to Lysias’ speech? What do you think evokes Phaedrus’ response? Include a quotation from the text to support your conclusion.
Phaedrus mentions that Lysias speech about love after fashion ingeniously proves that a non lover should be accepted instead of the lover. Phaedrus response is evoked by the fact that Lysias’ speech has clearly demonstrated the difference between a lover and non lover. The speech has proven weighty benefits of being a non lover to a lover, for example a non lover is in control of his own consciousness, thus desires good, and not controlled by opinions of the general public. He asserts at the end of reading the speech to Socrates by emphasizing the excellence in use of language. He says, “Now, Socrates, what do you think? Is not the discourse excellent, more especially in the matter of the language?”
Question two
How does Socrates initially respond to Lysias’ speech at 234d? Read carefully, and explain what you think is going on here. Again, refer to the text to support your reading.
Socrates does not respond to the content of Lysias speech at first instance. Rather he is mesmerized by the way Phaedrus delivers the speech to him. He becomes absorbed in the speech albeit because of Phaedrus presentation. Socrates believes Phaedrus is trying to show-off skills which clearly to him, Phaedrus is a novice as compared to him. He observes, “…And this I owe to you, Phaedrus, for I observed you while reading to be in an ecstasy, and thinking that you are more experienced in these matters than I am,…”
Question three
Socrates’ critique of Phaedrus’ speech begins at 235e. Here, we’re introduced to an example of Socratic irony. What’s Socrates sarcastic point here?
Socrates believes him and Phaedrus should not question the sentiments of the author but rather only his use of language. Socrates sarcastic point is demonstrated by him observing that Lysias’ speech is too repetitive and Lysias’ takes pride in putting across a point two or three times differently.
Question four
Socrates claims he knows his own ignorance, at 235c. What do you think he means? This calls for pure speculation on your part.
Socrates is trying to tell Phaedrus that Lysias’ speech could actually be not his original works. He tries to justify that given an opportunity, he could have even done something better and differently. We should also note that Socrates is a lover of arts and not an accomplished artist.

Question five
Nevertheless, Socrates becomes inspired to give his own speech. Briefly summarize Socrates’ “discourse.”
Socrates discourse major on the very fundamental nature of humans understanding concerning love. In questioning the preference of a lover or non lover, the nature and power of love must first be defined then its disadvantages and advantages deduced. Accordingly, everyone sees love as a desire, thus both the lover and non lover desire the beautiful and good. Hence to distinguish a lover and non lover, two guiding principals must be observed: one is the natural desire of pleasure, the other is an acquired opinion which aspires after the best.
Question six
Why does Socrates stop speaking? What is his evaluation of his own presentation? Refer to the text?
He stops speaking to guard against his expressions of the speech. He believes that Phaedrus has mischievously influenced him to lustful feelings so that he gets carried away with his presentation. He believes that his presentation is much more inspired.