The Lives and Opinions of Eminent Philosophers · Chapter
Lycon explained
This chapter details the life, character, and will of Lycon, a Peripatetic philosopher known for his eloquence, educational methods, and devotion to physical fitness.
What happens
This chapter details the life, character, and will of Lycon, a Peripatetic philosopher known for his eloquence, educational methods, and devotion to physical fitness. It includes his sayings, his relationship with kings, his rivalry with Hieronymus, and the detailed disposition of his property, including provisions for friends, servants, and the continuation of his school.
Themes in this chapter
Virtue and Self-Sufficiency
Lycon's will demonstrates careful management of his affairs, provision for dependents, and a focus on propriety and education, reflecting self-sufficiency and virtuous conduct.
Death and Legacy
The chapter centers on Lycon's death from gout, his will, and the arrangements for his burial and the continuation of his school, emphasizing how a philosopher's legacy is preserved.
The Philosopher's Life and Character
Lycon's eloquence, educational philosophy, physical fitness, and rivalry with Hieronymus are detailed, painting a full portrait of his character and daily life.
Characters to notice
- Lycon
Subject of the chapter; a Peripatetic philosopher from Troas, known for eloquence and education of youth.
- Strato of Lampsacus
Predecessor as head of the Peripatetic school; left the school to Lycon in his will.
- Antigonus of Carystus
Mentioned as a source on Lycon's appearance and as a king who tried to attract Lycon to his court.
- Arcesilaus
Referenced in connection with Hieronymus the Peripatetic's anniversary festival.
- Hermippus of Smyrna
Mentioned as a source for Lycon's neatness in dress.
Key passages
“For he used to say that it was fit for boys to be harnessed with modesty and rivalry, as much as for horses to be equipped with a spur and a bridle.”
Lycon believed that boys should be guided by both modesty and a competitive spirit, just as horses need both a spur and a bridle.
Illustrates Lycon's educational philosophy.
“A damsel, who for want of a dowry goes beyond the seasonable age, is a heavy burden to her father.”
An unmarried daughter past the usual age due to lack of dowry is a great burden to her father.
Example of Lycon's eloquence in speaking.
“He used also to say that those who deliberated without coming to a right conclusion, erred in their calculations like men who investigate a correct nature by an incorrect standard, or who look at a face in disturbed water or a distorted mirror.”
People who deliberate but reach wrong conclusions are like those who try to measure something correctly using a faulty standard, or who look at a face in rippled water or a warped mirror.
Lycon's metaphor for flawed reasoning.