The Theory of Moral Sentiments · Character
Zeno
Founder of Stoicism, discussed in the context of moral systems.
minor
Also known as Zeno the Stoic, Apollonius, Augustus Caesar, Caesar
First appearance: i of those systems which make virtue consist in propriety
Zeno's tie to Chrysippus is one of the pressures that moves The Theory of Moral Sentiments—worth meeting in the text, not only on a cast list.
Cited as an example of a great figure haunted by the remembrance of his crimes (Pharsalia) despite his magnanimity and dismissal of guards.
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With Chrysippus (professional): Chrysippus succeeded Zeno as head of the Stoic school and systematized his teachings. With Alexander the Great (social): Alexander is said to have been influenced by Zeno's Stoic ideas,…
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See Zeno in i of those systems which make virtue consist in proprietyCharacter Web
15 connectionsA slice of how Zeno sits in the book — open the reader for the full interactive map.
Relationship types
- Professional
- Social
- Rivalry
- Psychological
Character groups
- Protagonist
- Classical and Modern Moral Exemplars
- Ambitious and Self-Love Figures
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Open in readerNarrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Falling action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This passage marks the dramatic climax because it crystallizes the core psychological crisis: the tension betw…
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Follow the arc while readingRelationships
- Chrysippus
professional · positive
Chrysippus succeeded Zeno as head of the Stoic school and systematized his teachings. How this plays out →
- Alexander the Great
social · positive
- Machiavel
rivalry · negative
- Plato
professional · ambivalent
- Turenne
psychological · positive
Relationship notes
How these ties play out is in the reading companion — open the free preview.
See Zeno in i of those systems which make virtue consist in proprietyIn the story
Zeno appears across 5 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.
- III: Of the Corruption of Our Moral Sentiments, Which Is Occasioned by This Disposition to Admire the Rich and the Great, and to Despise or Neglect Persons of Poor and Mean Condition
- V: The Analysis of the Sense of Merit and Demerit
- Section I: Of the Character of the Individual, So Far as It Affects His Own Happiness; or of Prudence
- I: Of the Order in Which Individuals Are Recommended by Nature to Our Care and Attention
- Of Those Systems Which Make Virtue Consist in Prudence
Chapter companion notes
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See Zeno in i of those systems which make virtue consist in propriety