The Lives and Opinions of Eminent Philosophers · Chapter
Stilpo explained
This chapter details the life, teachings, and character of Stilpo of Megara, a prominent philosopher of the Megaric school known for his rhetorical skill, acumen, and ability to attract disciples from other schools.
What happens
This chapter details the life, teachings, and character of Stilpo of Megara, a prominent philosopher of the Megaric school known for his rhetorical skill, acumen, and ability to attract disciples from other schools. It recounts his interactions with rulers like Ptolemy Soter and Demetrius, his witty exchanges with Crates and others, his controversial views on the gods, and his death at an advanced age after drinking wine.
Themes in this chapter
The Philosopher's Life and Character
The chapter emphasizes Stilpo's personal qualities: his simplicity, wit, affability, and his philosophical integrity in the face of political power and personal loss.
Wisdom vs. Sophistry
Stilpo's clever arguments and rhetorical skill are highlighted, but his rejection of the theory of species and his paradoxical statements blur the line between genuine wisdom and sophistical wordplay.
Characters to notice
- Stilpo
The central figure of the chapter; a Megarian philosopher renowned for his eloquence, wit, and ability to attract followers from other schools.
- Crates of Thebes
A Cynic philosopher who engages in several witty exchanges with Stilpo, including a famous fig anecdote and a remark about needing a new garment.
- Zeno of Citium
Mentioned as one of Stilpo's pupils, later the founder of the Stoic school.
- Euclides of Megara
Stilpo is said to have been a pupil of Euclides or of his school, linking him to the Megaric tradition.
- Theophrastus
Mentioned as one from whom Stilpo 'carried off' the philosopher Metrodorus, illustrating Stilpo's influence.
Key passages
“For that no one had taken from him his learning, and that he still had his eloquence and his knowledge.”
Stilpo told Demetrius that despite losing his possessions, his true wealth—his learning, eloquence, and knowledge—remained intact.
This illustrates Stilpo's philosophical detachment from material goods and his focus on inner virtues.
“She is not more a disgrace to me than I am an honor to her.”
When criticized for his daughter's licentious behavior, Stilpo replied that his own honorable reputation outweighed any shame she might bring.
Shows Stilpo's unconventional and confident attitude toward family and reputation.
“Not only that, but you have lost your question too, of which the fig was the pledge.”
After Crates complained that Stilpo ate the fig he offered, Stilpo retorted that Crates also lost the question that the fig was meant to secure.
Demonstrates Stilpo's quick wit and playful dialectical style.