Diogenes Laertius

Definition

Diogenes Laertius was a Greek philosopher and biographer known for his work 'Lives and Opinions of Eminent Philosophers,' which is a key source for understanding the lives and teachings of ancient philosophers. His writings represent a significant contribution to the Greek biographical tradition, bridging the gap between earlier historians like Xenophon and later biographers by emphasizing the personal anecdotes and philosophical insights of figures such as Socrates, Epicurus, and the Stoics.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Diogenes Laertius lived during the 3rd century CE and his work remains one of the primary sources for information about early Greek philosophers.
2. His biographies often include personal anecdotes, legends, and sayings that offer insight into the characters of the philosophers he describes.
3. The 'Lives and Opinions of Eminent Philosophers' is divided into ten books, each focusing on different philosophical schools or individual thinkers.
4. Diogenes Laertius emphasized the importance of ethics in philosophy, showcasing how philosophers applied their ideas to daily life.
5. His work reflects a blend of historical narrative with a biographical approach, setting a precedent for later biographical writing in Western literature.

Review Questions

• How does Diogenes Laertius's approach to biography differ from that of earlier historians like Xenophon?
  • Diogenes Laertius's approach to biography is distinct from earlier historians such as Xenophon in that he incorporates more personal anecdotes and philosophical insights rather than strictly historical accounts. While Xenophon often focused on political events and military matters, Diogenes emphasized the individual lives and thoughts of philosophers, making his work richer in character portrayal and philosophical context. This shift allowed readers to gain a deeper understanding of the personal dimensions of philosophical thought.
• Discuss the significance of Diogenes Laertius's 'Lives and Opinions of Eminent Philosophers' in preserving ancient philosophical traditions.
  • The significance of Diogenes Laertius's 'Lives and Opinions of Eminent Philosophers' lies in its role as a vital source for preserving the teachings and lives of many ancient philosophers who might have otherwise been forgotten. By documenting their ideas alongside personal stories, he provided future generations with insight into how these thinkers lived out their philosophies in practical terms. His work serves not only as a historical record but also as a means to understand the evolution of philosophical thought from its origins through various schools, such as Stoicism and Epicureanism.
• Evaluate how Diogenes Laertius's biographical style influences our understanding of philosophy during his time compared to today.
  • Diogenes Laertius's biographical style greatly influences our understanding of philosophy by framing it within the context of personal experiences and ethical considerations. Unlike contemporary philosophical texts that may focus more on abstract theories or technical arguments, Diogenes's emphasis on character and anecdote highlights how philosophy was interwoven with daily life. This narrative approach provides valuable insights into the motivations behind philosophical thought during his time, fostering a more relatable connection between philosophy and human experience that resonates with readers even today.

Related terms

Xenophon: A contemporary of Socrates, Xenophon was a historian and philosopher whose works provide important insights into Socratic thought and the social context of classical Athens.

Epicureanism: A philosophical system founded by Epicurus that emphasizes the pursuit of happiness through pleasure, friendship, and philosophical contemplation.

Stoicism: An ancient Greek philosophy that teaches the development of self-control and fortitude as a means to overcome destructive emotions, focusing on virtue and wisdom.