Socrates compares himself to a gadfly because he annoys people with his questions and his challenging of traditional beliefs. It’s from a story in Book 10 of Plato’s Republic.
The Greek philosopher Socrates (c. 470-399 BC) was one of the most famous and influential thinkers in ancient Greece. He was also known for his actions, which often caused trouble for him. The most famous incident occurred when he was put on trial for impiety and corrupting the youth of Athens. He was given the chance to escape from prison, but chose instead to stay and drink the “poison” hemlock.
Philosopher compared himself to a gadfly, a type of insect that bites horses and makes them restless and jumpy. The word “gadfly” comes from ancient Greek gale meaning “stinging fly” or “prickly” (as in galea). This refers to the fact that flies are often seen as pests that irritate animals. Socrates uses this image to describe himself as someone who irritates people by questioning their assumptions and beliefs.
In Plato’s dialogue Apology, Socrates explains why he does not run away from his troubles: “I am like a horse who has been under the yoke all his life, who suddenly throws off his rider and runs away; I have thrown off the Athenian people.”
