Delian Deliverance

There are two major curiosities that I would like to mention from the very beginning of the dialogue. The first being that this is told first hand. The second is how closely Apollo is paired with Socrates.

While I am not familiar enough with the collected works of Plato, I am curious as to what is implied by who the narrator is. I just feel like having a narrator who was there is not accidental. I would like to hear something on the subject.

The more substantial portion of this post is focused on the connection between Apollo and Socrates. While it is well known that Socrates is a vehement follower of Apollo, the allusions to the god make more of a statement about the view of Socrates and whom he represents in the dialogue rather than just his religious life. Primarily, Apollo is one of the main oracular gods, affiliating him with wisdom (a comparison made in the Apology with reference to the Delphic oracle's judgement of Socrates). One of the first instances of this relation that we encounter in this particular dialogues is contained within the pilgrimage to Delos. The execution is postponed on account of a pledge made to Apollo not to pollute the city with death. It is quite significant then that Socrates' death is viewed as a pollution, and is not sanctioned by the god.  Going one step further, with the connection to Apollo's oracular nature, Plato is saying it is unwise (and boerderline impious) to kill Socrates. While that seems obvious enough for us a few millinia later, there is a nuance to be appreciated for its time.

Secondly, Phaedo mentions that Socrates felt he, "would not go without divine providence," even to Hades. I took this as another allusion to Apollo. What is interesting about this particular reference is that Hades is a cold, dark, barren place full of mindless shades, and Apollo is the god of the sun, radiating light, warmth, and wisdom. Interestingly enough, given the reincarnation aspect of this dialogue, Hades (with it's jewelled pseudo-sun of myth made for Persephone) sounds much like the Cave, and Socrates with his providence by Apollo being the freed captive.