The Lives and Opinions of Eminent Philosophers · Character

Crates of Thebes

The Cynic who gave away his fortune to live in poverty, mocking desire with jokes sharp enough to cure a rich man of love.

supporting

Also known as the Cynic Crates, Crates the Cynic

First appearance: Crates

As a supporting figure in The Lives and Opinions of Eminent Philosophers, Crates of Thebes is not background color—the story leans on what they do once the chapter opens.

Mentioned indirectly as part of the Cynic tradition; Anacharsis is often associated with Cynic ideals of simplicity.

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Crates of Thebes abandons his wealth for the Cynic life, and his wit becomes a weapon: told of a rich man in love with an ugly woman, he offers to find a prettier one for ten talents. He writes dialogues on riches, pleasure, justice, and friendship, and his reputation is such that Aristotle reportedly paid three talents for his books. His presence in the Lives marks the moment Cynic shamelessness becomes a serious philosophical position rather than mere street theater.

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Narrative arc

Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Falling action.

Setup
Escalation
Breaking point
Aftermath
Closing

Monimus’s feigned madness and destruction of the money is the emotional and psychological peak because it dram…

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In the story

Crates of Thebes appears across 12 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.

Anacharsis, the Scythian
Mentioned indirectly as part of the Cynic tradition; Anacharsis is often associated with Cynic ideals of simplicity.
Stilpo
A Cynic philosopher who engages in several witty exchanges with Stilpo, including a famous fig anecdote and a remark about needing a new garment.
Menedemus
Menedemus's critic; he mocked Menedemus's political involvement and called him 'Agamemnon' and 'Hegesipolis'.
Polemo
Present with Polemo when Nicostratus the poet reads; Crates is moved while Polemo remains unmoved.
Crates
Son of Antigenes, pupil and successor of Polemo, known for his close friendship with Polemo and his philosophical writings.
Arcesilaus
Arcesilaus succeeded him as head of the Academy.
Bion
Bion became a disciple of Crates early in his career, adopting the Cynic cloak and wallet.
Book VI: The Cynics and the Rise of Stoicism
Cynic philosopher; disciple of Diogenes; teacher of Zeno of Citium; known for temperance and patience; part of the Cynic tradition.
Monimus
Monimus followed Crates the Cynic and devoted himself to the same studies.
Crates
Main subject of the chapter; a Cynic philosopher who gave away his wealth, practiced endurance, and was known for his witty sayings and unconventional lifestyle.
Metrocles
The Cynic philosopher who consoled Metrocles and became his teacher.
Hipparchia
The Cynic philosopher whom Hipparchia marries; he tries to dissuade her but ultimately accepts her commitment.

Chapter companion notes

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See Crates of Thebes in Crates

See Crates of Thebes in Anacharsis, the Scythian