Diogenes, the Teacher Life and Philosophy

This dramatic narrative illustrates the lifestyle and philosophy of Diogenes of Sinope, the prominent Greek Cynic philosopher, who lived roughly from 404 to 323 BCE. Diogenes was known for his humor, ascetic lifestyle, radical critiques of social conventions, and the famous anecdote of searching with staff and lantern for an honest man. Statues of Diogenes reveal a robust man, usually in the company of dogs. His philosophy reveals itself in his meeting with Alexander, the Great, and his arguments with Plato. Fleeing Athens, captured by pirates, sold as a slave, Diogenes lived his later years, according to legend, caring for the children of Xeniades, a wealthy merchant of Corinth.