How we cite our quotes: Stephanus pagination (the standardized way in which every text of Plato is divided). Every edition and translation will have this pagination in the margins.
Quote #1
Here is the wisdom of Socrates; unwilling himself to teach, he goes around learning from others, and does not even give thanks to them. (338b)
Here, Thrasymachus expresses his negative take on Socrates's abilities as an educator. He suggests that Socrates only pretends to be teaching; he's actually just trying to figure out what everyone else knows. Do you think Socrates would be able to explain his ideas in a plain old essay? Would this method of argumentation be as effective as a dialogue?
Quote #2
So shall we be bold and assert that a human being too, if he is going to be gentle to his own and those known to him, must by nature be a philosopher and a lover of learning?" (376b-c)
According to Socrates, a general desire to learn, coupled with a rigorous pursuit of philosophy, is crucial to being a good person. What is the connection between goodness and a desire to learn?
Quote #3
"The city we described really is wise, in my opinion. That's because of its good counsel, isn't it?" (428b)
Socrates imagines that wisdom is something that an entire city can possess—but only if the city is set up like the republic, with a philosopher-king at the helm. Otherwise, Socrates thinks there's very little wisdom to be found in crowds of people.