# Anacharsis, the Scythian explained — The Lives and Opinions of Eminent Philosophers

> Chapter companion for The Lives and Opinions of Eminent Philosophers by Diogenes Laërtius.

## What happens

Anacharsis, a Scythian prince with a Greek mother, travels to Athens to learn Greek customs, becomes a close friend of Solon, and returns to Scythia where he is killed by his brother for attempting to reform Scythian traditions. The chapter collects his witty sayings, his inventions (anchor, potter's wheel), and his observations on Greek life.

## Themes in this chapter

### Wisdom vs. Sophistry

Anacharsis' blunt sayings and critiques of Greek customs (e.g., athletes judging contests, drinking habits) contrast simple Scythian wisdom with Greek sophistry.

### Ethics and Self-Control

His advice on restraining the tongue, avoiding drunkenness, and valuing true friendship reflects a focus on ethical self-discipline.

## Character check-ins

### Anacharsis

The Scythian philosopher who visits Athens, befriends Solon, and is later killed by his brother for advocating Greek customs.

### Solon

The Athenian lawgiver who initially hesitates to receive Anacharsis but then admires his wit and makes him a close friend.

### Crates of Thebes

Mentioned indirectly as part of the Cynic tradition; Anacharsis is often associated with Cynic ideals of simplicity.

## Key lines

> Being reproached by an Athenian for being a Scythian, he said: 'Well, my country is a disgrace to me, but you are a disgrace to your country.'

When an Athenian insulted him for being a Scythian, Anacharsis retorted that his homeland might shame him, but the Athenian himself shamed his own homeland.

_Highlights Anacharsis' sharp wit and his defense of Scythian identity against Greek prejudice._

> He used to say: 'That it was better to have one friend of great value, than many friends who were good for nothing.'

He often stated that a single valuable friend is preferable to many worthless ones.

_Reflects his emphasis on quality over quantity in relationships._

> When he was asked what there was among men which was both good and bad, he replied: 'The tongue.'

Asked what in human life is both good and bad, he answered: 'The tongue.'

_Illustrates his view of speech as a double-edged tool._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_lives_and_opinions_of_eminent_philosophers_se/chapters/anacharsis-the-scythian
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_lives_and_opinions_of_eminent_philosophers_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_lives_and_opinions_of_eminent_philosophers_se/chapters