The Lives and Opinions of Eminent Philosophers · Chapter
Simon explained
Simon, an Athenian leather-cutter, recorded Socrates' conversations in his workshop, creating the first Socratic dialogues known as 'leathern dialogues.' He authored thirty-three dialogues on various topics and famously refused Pericles' of
What happens
Simon, an Athenian leather-cutter, recorded Socrates' conversations in his workshop, creating the first Socratic dialogues known as 'leathern dialogues.' He authored thirty-three dialogues on various topics and famously refused Pericles' offer of support to preserve his freedom of speech.
Themes in this chapter
Virtue and Self-Sufficiency
Simon's refusal of Pericles' patronage to maintain his freedom of speech exemplifies self-sufficiency.
Wisdom vs. Sophistry
Simon's dialogues on virtue, justice, and courage contrast with sophistical rhetoric.
Characters to notice
- Simon the Shoemaker
Athenian leather-cutter who recorded Socrates' sayings and authored thirty-three dialogues.
- Socrates
Philosopher whose conversations in Simon's workshop were recorded.
- Periander of Corinth
Mentioned as offering to provide for Simon, who refused to sell his freedom of speech.
Key passages
“Simon Simon was an Athenian, a leather-cutter. He, whenever Socrates came into his workshop and conversed, used to make memorandums of all his sayings that he recollected.”
Simon, an Athenian cobbler, would jot down Socrates' remarks whenever the philosopher visited his shop.
Describes Simon's method of recording Socratic dialogues.
“And when Pericles offered to provide for him, and invited him to come to him, he said that he would not sell his freedom of speech.”
When Pericles offered him support and an invitation, Simon declined, stating he would not trade his free speech for patronage.
Illustrates Simon's commitment to intellectual independence.