The Lives and Opinions of Eminent Philosophers · Chapter
Xenocrates explained
This chapter details the life and character of Xenocrates, a pupil of Plato known for his solemnity, continence, and incorruptibility.
What happens
This chapter details the life and character of Xenocrates, a pupil of Plato known for his solemnity, continence, and incorruptibility. It recounts anecdotes illustrating his resistance to temptation, his trustworthiness, his disdain for bribery, and his philosophical demeanor, as well as his succession of Speusippus as head of the Academy and his death at an advanced age.
Themes in this chapter
Virtue and Self-Sufficiency
Xenocrates' continence with Phryne, his refusal of bribes from Alexander and Antipater, and his trustworthiness exemplify self-sufficient virtue.
Ethics and Self-Control
His resistance to temptation, daily meditation, and habit of silence highlight his rigorous ethical discipline.
Death and Legacy
The chapter recounts his death from a fall and lists his extensive writings, underscoring his lasting philosophical influence.
Characters to notice
- Xenocrates
Subject of the chapter; pupil of Plato, head of the Academy, known for his gravity and self-control.
- Plato
Xenocrates' teacher; compared him to Aristotle and urged him to 'sacrifice to the Graces.'
- Aristotle
Compared unfavorably to Xenocrates by Plato; described as needing the bridle.
- Phryne
Courtesan who tested Xenocrates' continence by sharing his bed, but failed to seduce him.
- Bion of Borysthenes
Ridiculed Xenocrates, who compared Bion's comedy to tragedy and refused to reply.
- Demetrius of Phalerum
Purchased Xenocrates when he was sold for inability to pay the metic tax, freeing him.
Key passages
“The one requires the spur, and the other the bridle.”
Plato said that Aristotle needed restraint while Xenocrates needed encouragement.
Plato's comparison of his two pupils' temperaments.
“Xenocrates, sacrifice to the Graces.”
Plato advised Xenocrates to cultivate charm and grace.
Reflects Xenocrates' solemn and ungraceful nature.
“Be gone, for you have not yet the handles of philosophy.”
Xenocrates dismissed a student lacking basic education in music, geometry, and astronomy.
Emphasizes the prerequisites for philosophical study.
“Not before they have cut off mine.”
Xenocrates offered his own head to Dionysius when Plato was threatened with decapitation.
Demonstrates his loyalty and courage.