The Lives and Opinions of Eminent Philosophers · Chapter
Chrysippus explained
This chapter details the life, character, and prolific writings of Chrysippus, the Stoic philosopher who succeeded Cleanthes.
What happens
This chapter details the life, character, and prolific writings of Chrysippus, the Stoic philosopher who succeeded Cleanthes. It covers his intellectual acumen, his immense output of over 705 books, his dialectical skill, his arrogance, his death from drinking unmixed wine (or from laughter), and his controversial doctrines including incest and cannibalism.
Themes in this chapter
The Philosopher's Life and Character
Chrysippus's arrogance, industriousness, and eccentricities (e.g., moving his legs while drinking, laughing at an ass eating figs) are highlighted.
Death and Legacy
His death from drinking unmixed wine or from laughter, and his immense influence on Stoicism, are discussed.
Ethics and Self-Control
The chapter mentions his controversial ethical doctrines, including incest and cannibalism, as part of his philosophical system.
Characters to notice
- Chrysippus
Main subject of the chapter; a prolific Stoic philosopher, student of Cleanthes, known for his dialectical skill and vast writings.
- Cleanthes
Teacher of Chrysippus; Chrysippus often dissented from him but repented, and defended him against sophistical attacks.
- Zeno of Citium
Founder of Stoicism; Chrysippus was initially a pupil of Zeno or Cleanthes, and later dissented from Zeno's views.
- Arcesilaus
Academic philosopher; Chrysippus joined him and Lacydes in the Academy, adopting the habit of arguing for and against.
- Lacydes
Academic philosopher; along with Arcesilaus, he influenced Chrysippus's dialectical approach.
- Carneades
Called Chrysippus 'Crypsippus' (hidden horse) because his statue in the Ceramicus is nearly hidden by an equestrian statue.
Key passages
“In most respects I am a happy man, Excepting where Cleanthes is concerned; For in that matter I am far from fortunate.”
Chrysippus often said he was fortunate except when it came to Cleanthes, regarding whom he felt unlucky.
Reflects Chrysippus's conflicted relationship with his teacher.
“For if Chrysippus had not lived and taught, The Stoic school would surely have been nought.”
People said that without Chrysippus, the Stoic school would have amounted to nothing.
Highlights his pivotal role in Stoicism.
“If I had attended to the multitude I should not have been a philosopher.”
Chrysippus replied to a critic that following the crowd would have prevented him from becoming a philosopher.
Demonstrates his disdain for popular opinion.