Inheriting a substantial fortune in Thebes, Crates opted to renounce his wealth, choosing instead a life of voluntary poverty in Athens. As a central figure in the Cynic movement during the fourth century BC, he influenced the next generation of thinkers, most notably serving as the primary teacher of Zeno of Citium, the eventual founder of Stoicism.
Conversion to Cynicism
Born circa 365 BC, Crates was the son of Ascondus. Accounts of his renunciation of wealth vary; one tradition suggests he distributed his fortune to the citizens of Thebes after viewing a theatrical performance, while another claims he entrusted his assets to a banker with specific instructions regarding the future of his sons. Upon relocating to Athens, he became a student of Diogenes of Sinope, Bryson the Achaean, and Stilpo, adopting the tattered cloak and wallet that became symbols of his existence.
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Physically distinguished by a hunched back and a lame leg, Crates was known as the Door-Opener for his habit of entering private homes uninvited to mediate family disputes. His marriage to Hipparchia of Maroneia represented a departure from contemporary social norms, as the couple rejected traditional aristocratic lifestyles and engaged in public displays that drew both scandal and admiration. They raised at least two children, Pasicles and a daughter, in a household defined by mutual respect and Cynic principles.
Literary and Philosophical Output
Crates engaged in various literary activities, composing philosophical tragedies and a collection of poems titled Paignia. His work often utilized humour to convey serious moral lessons, a style categorized as spoudaiogeloion. In his descriptions of Pera, an ideal Cynic city, he parodied traditional literary forms to advocate for a life of frugality, focusing on self-sufficiency and the avoidance of luxury. These fragments remain the primary evidence of his core teachings on asceticism and social virtue.
Fast facts
- Born: -365, Thebes
- Died: -285, Boeotia
- Movement: Cynicism
- Primary Teacher of: Zeno of Citium
- Nickname: Door-Opener
- Known works: Paignia and letters
- Language: Ancient Greek
- Spouse: Hipparchia of Maroneia
Questions readers ask
What was the significance of the city Pera?
Pera was a conceptual, ideal Cynic city described in the writings of Crates, named after the beggar's wallet he carried, symbolizing a life stripped of material excess.
How did Crates influence Stoicism?
He served as the teacher of Zeno of Citium, who founded the Stoic school of philosophy and held Crates in high esteem throughout his life.
Achievements
- Fields: philosophy, Cynicism and literary activity