The Lives and Opinions of Eminent Philosophers · Character
Polemo
A reformed rake turned head of the Academy, whose severe dignity made Arcesilaus call him a remnant of the golden race.
supporting
Also known as Crates of Polemo
First appearance: Polemo
As a supporting figure in The Lives and Opinions of Eminent Philosophers, Polemo is not background color—the story leans on what they do once the chapter opens.
A reformed profligate who became a rigorous philosopher, succeeding Xenocrates, known for his immovable demeanor and strict moral character.
Polemo succeeds Xenocrates at the Academy and becomes the model of the disciplined philosophical life, lecturing while walking and inspiring pupils to build huts around his garden. He praises Xenocrates' guileless nature and Doric severity, and his friendship with Crates grows so close that the two are buried in a single tomb. His devotion to Sophocles and his taste for pure Pramnian wine over sweetened drafts show a man whose rigor was matched by genuine aesthetic appetite.
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Character Web
42 connectionsA slice of how Polemo sits in the book — open the reader for the full interactive map.
Relationship types
- Other
Character groups
- Major Philosophers and Biographers
+37 more in the full Character Web
Open in readerNarrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
Monimus’s feigned madness and destruction of the money is the emotional and psychological peak because it dram…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingIn the story
Polemo appears across 5 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.
Chapter companion notes
Spoil-light check-ins for Polemo unlock in the free preview.
See Polemo in Polemo