[187] This is described by Xenophon in his Banquet, in a passage which we must regard as his genuine recollection of a similar pleasantry on the part of Socrates. Had it been found in Plato, this might have been doubtful; but it is not Xenophon’s habit to introduce his master in this ludicrous manner. At a drinking party in the house of Callias, Socrates is introduced contesting the point of beauty with Critobulus. To prove his own superiority, he asks, “whether beauty resides in man only, or in other things?”
Critobulus. I think, by Jupiter, that it exists in a horse also, and an ox, and many inanimate things: as, for instance, I know of a handsome shield, or sword, or spear.
Socrates. And how is it possible that these things, being all unlike each other, should all be handsome?
Critob. If things are well fitted for the purposes for which we have them, or are well constituted by nature for useful ends, even these things are handsome.(a)
Socr. Do you know, then, for what you want eyes?
Critob. Plainly, to see.
Socr. On this ground, then, my eyes would be handsomer than yours.
Critob. How so?
Socr. Because yours see straight forward only; but mine, which project, can see to the side also.
Critob. You say, then, that a crab is the best eyed of animals?