THE GODDESS ATHENA

One could not be a good Athenian without belief in the city's patron deity. Or that of her father Zeus. This is why durring the fifth and fourth centuries several philosophers were put on trial and charged with impiety. The trial of Socrates is the most famous. In 399 he was accused 'of not believing in the gods recognized by the city, and of attempting to introduce new divinities. Thus he corrupted the young. In due course he was condemned to death. As were several others.