Seven sages

• The Seven Sages of Ancient Greece emerged during a period of profound transformation and intellectual ferment


  7th and 6th centuries BCE
• The 7th and 6th centuries BCE were marked by the rise of the polis, the Greek city-state, which became the fundamental political and social unit of ancient Greece
• These city-states were fiercely independent, each governed by its own set of laws and customs
• The Seven Wise Men of Greece

  • Thales of Miletus
  • Pittacus of Mitylene
  • Bias of Priene
  • Solon of Athens
  • Chilon of Sparta
  • Cleobulus of Lindos
  • Periander of Corinth
• Thales of Miletus


  • Born in the city-state of Miletus, a bustling center of commerce and culture in Ionia, Thales was exposed to a diverse array of ideas and philosophies from an early age
  • Unlike Solon's focus on law and governance or Chilon's emphasis on social discipline, Thales is best remembered for his contributions to natural philosophy, what we would today call science
  • He was among the first to propose that natural phenomena could be explained by principles that were both universal and discoverable, a radical departure from the prevailing view that attributed such phenomena to the whims of gods
  • Thales' most famous assertion was that water is the fundamental substance of all things
• Pittacus of Mitylene


  • His tactical brilliance on the battlefield was matched only by his wisdom in governance, as he later served as a ruler of Mytilene and enacted a series of reforms aimed at creating a more just and equitable society
  • One of his most famous maxims, "Know the right moment," encapsulates his philosophy of timely action, whether in war or politics
  • Pittacus' tenure as a ruler was marked by a focus on social justice and legal reform. He is credited with introducing a law that imposed harsher penalties on those who committed crimes under the influence of alcohol
• Bias of Priene


  • Hailing from the city-state of Priene in Ionia, Bias was renowned for his sense of justice and moral integrity
  • Unlike Thales, who was more focused on natural philosophy, or Solon and Chilon, who were deeply involved in governance, Bias was primarily celebrated for his ethical teachings and his ability to resolve disputes
  • Bias of Priene was a famous lawmaker, poet, and politician
• Solon of Athens


  • Originally Solon of Salamis, Solon of Athens was arguably one of the most influential figures in the history of Athens
  • Solon was a historic poet, politician, and lawmaker who helped introduce a new law in Athens called the "great unburdening", which forgave all citizens's debts
  • Born and raised on the island of Salamis, Solon initially made his way to Athens as a successful trader, and his abilities as a public speaker and poet began to gain him recognition
• Chilon of Sparta


  • As a prominent Spartan and a member of the Spartan Senate, Chilon's life and teachings were deeply influenced by the unique social and political landscape of Sparta, a city-state renowned for its military prowess and austere lifestyle
  • Unlike Athens, which was moving towards democracy and open debate, Sparta was a rigid oligarchy, focused on discipline, hierarchy, and martial excellence
• Cleobulus of Lindos


  • Known for his physical strength and striking beauty, Cleobulus was more than just a handsome face; he was a philosopher, statesman, and a man of letters
  • Unlike his fellow sages who were deeply involved in the political and judicial systems of their respective city-states, Cleobulus was a tyrant of Lindos
  • However, his rule was noted for its moderation and wisdom, making him a beloved leader
  • His governance was imbued with a sense of balance, a principle that also found expression in his most famous maxim: "Moderation is the best thing"
• Periander of Corinth


  • Periander of Corinth is perhaps the most controversial figure among the Seven Sages of Ancient Greece
  • Unlike his fellow sages, who were largely celebrated for their wisdom and just rule, Periander was a tyrant whose governance was marked by both enlightened policies and harsh measures
  • Ruling over the strategically located city-state of Corinth, he inherited a position of considerable power and influence
  • Under his rule, Corinth flourished as a center of commerce and culture, benefiting from its advantageous position between two seas
  • Yet, his reign was also characterized by authoritarian measures aimed at consolidating his power