Crates of Thebes was a Greek Cynic philosopher, the principal pupil of Diogenes of Sinope and the husband of Hipparchia of Maroneia who lived in the same manner as him. Crates gave away his money to live a life of poverty on the streets of Athens. Respected by the people of Athens, he is remembered for being the teacher of Zeno of Citium, the founder of Stoicism. Various fragments of Crates' teachings survive, including his description of the ideal Cynic state.
Crates of Thebes. Detail from a Roman wall painting in the Villa Farnesina in Rome.
Roman wall painting of Crates and Hipparchia from the Villa Farnesina, Rome. Crates is shown with a staff and satchel, being approached by Hipparchia bearing her possessions in the manner of a potential bride.
"Diogenes in his barrel and Crates of Thebes who gives up wealth for virtue." 15th-century manuscript.
Crates disposes of his wealth. From the Allegory of the Hill of Wisdom, Siena Cathedral. Floor mosaic by Pinturicchio (c. 1505).
Thebes is a city in Boeotia, Central Greece, and is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. It is the largest city in Boeotia and a major center for the area along with Livadeia and Tanagra.
View of Thebes.
Remains of the Cadmea, the central fortress of ancient Thebes
Archeological museum of Thebes
Theban workshop (Oinochoe type), 7th century BC
