# Xenocrates explained — The Lives and Opinions of Eminent Philosophers

> Chapter companion for The Lives and Opinions of Eminent Philosophers by Diogenes Laërtius.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_lives_and_opinions_of_eminent_philosophers_se/chapters/xenocrates
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_lives_and_opinions_of_eminent_philosophers_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_lives_and_opinions_of_eminent_philosophers_se/chapters