The Lives and Opinions of Eminent Philosophers · Chapter
Book IV: The Successors of Plato explained
This chapter covers the lives and teachings of Plato's successors, Speusippus and Xenocrates, as well as Polemo, highlighting their characters, philosophical contributions, and anecdotes that illustrate their virtues and flaws.
What happens
This chapter covers the lives and teachings of Plato's successors, Speusippus and Xenocrates, as well as Polemo, highlighting their characters, philosophical contributions, and anecdotes that illustrate their virtues and flaws.
Themes in this chapter
Virtue and Self-Sufficiency
Xenocrates' incorruptibility and self-discipline, as well as Polemo's moral reform, exemplify the theme of virtue and self-sufficiency.
The Philosopher's Life and Character
The chapter focuses on the personal lives and characters of Speusippus, Xenocrates, and Polemo, illustrating how their virtues and flaws shaped their philosophy.
Origins and Succession of Philosophical Schools
The chapter explicitly discusses the succession of the Academy from Plato to Speusippus, then to Xenocrates, and finally to Polemo.
Characters to notice
- Speusippus
Plato's nephew and successor, known for his passionate nature and love of pleasure, yet a pioneer in investigating the connections between sciences.
- Xenocrates
A solemn and continent pupil of Plato, known for his incorruptibility, trustworthiness, and self-discipline, even resisting the courtesan Phryne.
- Polemo
A reformed profligate who became a rigorous philosopher, succeeding Xenocrates, known for his immovable demeanor and strict moral character.
- Plato
Mentioned as the teacher of Xenocrates and Speusippus, and for his observations on their characters.
- Diogenes of Sinope
Appears briefly, mocking Speusippus for enduring life despite his paralysis.
- Crantor
Noted as being charmed by Polemo's consistent character.
Key passages
“In death he fell asleep. So thus Xenocrates did fall, The universal friend of all.”
Xenocrates died peacefully, mourned as a friend to everyone.
Epitaph for Xenocrates, emphasizing his universal goodwill.
“Xenocrates, sacrifice to the Graces.”
Xenocrates, you should cultivate charm and grace.
Plato's advice to Xenocrates, suggesting he lacked social grace.
“I will not say hail to you, who, though in such a state as you are, endure to live.”
I won't greet you, since you continue living despite your miserable condition.
Diogenes' harsh rebuke to the paralyzed Speusippus.