The myth of the Ring of Gyges has transcended hundreds of years, making it a 'tale as old as time'. Modern adaptations of this myth include, as an example, JRR Tolkien's “The Lord of the Rings” series. Through this legend and others, such as the myth of metals, Plato is able to demonstrate what one should do if one becomes the possessor of the infamous Ring of Gyges, ergo the argument for why one should act rightly. If I had a magical ring like the Ring of Gyges I would be inclined to behave mischievously, but I would end up acting as if I didn't have the ring. Fully understanding my position, if I had a magic ring, can only be fully understood once the purpose of the ring, relating to morality, is understood. I have a feeling that the Socrates of the Apology and the Republic would respond consistently. That is to say, that regardless of whether one possesses the ring or not, one should act rightly. "Why act right", is a theme present in all of Plato's philosophical works, in The Republic, Plato aims to address the question of how justice becomes a virtue in society. Keep in mind that The Republic, as well as the Apology, are works by Plato, but the main character is Socrates, Plato's teacher. Therefore, when referring to the two works, one can cite Plato and/or Socrates. Furthermore, after addressing how one acts justly, Plato must ask why one should act justly. He uses the myth of the Ring of Gyges to help explain this phenomenon of human behavior. Because in discussion with his two brothers, Glaucon and Adeimantus, the myth of the Ring of Gyges is brought up in conversation for the first time. Found specifically in the Stephanus pagination of 2.359a–2.360d, Plato's brother Glaucon first recounts the legend in Book II of the Republic. The......middle of the paper......sense of arête, as described before. Consequently, while seemingly tempted to act unjustly, if you want to live an examined life, you will find that you will be the happiest and have more eudaemonia, or the Greek word for happy and/or balanced, if you act justly. This occurs regardless of whether the individual in question is wearing the Ring of Gyges or not. To reiterate, if I were in possession of the Ring of Gyges, even though I would be tempted to act unjustly, I would ultimately act justly. By acting rightly you promote the idea that your soul (ration, spirit and desire) is in harmony. The scenographic idea is illustrated by the metaphor of a city and the myth of metals. This idea demonstrates the notion of “justice is not what you see but what you feel” as stated by Plato. After considering Socrates in both the Republic and the Apology, I think he would ultimately respond similarly.