# Solon — The Lives and Opinions of Eminent Philosophers character guide

> Solon in The Lives and Opinions of Eminent Philosophers by Diogenes Laërtius.

**Role:** supporting

**Also known as:** wise Solon, Solon the Athenian

**First appearance:** 0005-solon

## Who they are

Athenian lawgiver and one of the Seven Sages, whose neat dress and gymnasium habits belied the political wisdom that saved his city from ruin.

## In the story

### [Book I: The Origins and Divisions of Philosophy](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_lives_and_opinions_of_eminent_philosophers_se/chapters/book-i)

Solon is highlighted as a wise lawgiver who recaptured Salamis, enacted laws, and advised against tyranny. His letters to Periander and Epimenides are included.

### [Thales](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_lives_and_opinions_of_eminent_philosophers_se/chapters/thales)

Mentioned as a fellow sage and correspondent of Thales, invited to Miletus.

### [Solon](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_lives_and_opinions_of_eminent_philosophers_se/chapters/solon)

The central figure of the chapter; Athenian lawgiver who introduced debt relief, recaptured Salamis, and resisted tyranny.

### [Cleobulus](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_lives_and_opinions_of_eminent_philosophers_se/chapters/cleobulus)

Recipient of a letter from Cleobulus, who invites Solon to Lindus for its democratic and safe environment.

### [Anacharsis, the Scythian](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_lives_and_opinions_of_eminent_philosophers_se/chapters/anacharsis-the-scythian)

The Athenian lawgiver who initially hesitates to receive Anacharsis but then admires his wit and makes him a close friend.

### [Epimenides](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_lives_and_opinions_of_eminent_philosophers_se/chapters/epimenides)

Recipient of a letter from Epimenides discussing tyranny and freedom in Athens.

### [Endnotes](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_lives_and_opinions_of_eminent_philosophers_se/chapters/endnotes)

Mentioned in relation to the lunar calendar and the naming of the last day of the month.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_lives_and_opinions_of_eminent_philosophers_se/characters/solon
- Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_lives_and_opinions_of_eminent_philosophers_se
- All characters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_lives_and_opinions_of_eminent_philosophers_se/characters