Episode 5: The Life of Solon

Episode 5: The Life of Solon

Author: Plutarch902 February 20, 2021 Duration: 24:22

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Solon was Athens' original wise man.  Can his guidance and prudent laws help the city avoid disintegrating into civil conflict?


For the life of Solon we return to Athens, where we started the podcast and learned about Theseus, the hero who the Athenians celebrate as their founder because he ended the tribute to King Minos of Crete, brought the people of Attica together, and established some of Athens traditions and festivals.

Chris:  Not to mention slaying a minotaur, and attempting to kidnap a wife on more than one occasion 

Ryan:  Right – Theseus led a very eventful life to say the least 

And Chris, I am excited to be moving forward and taking on the life of Solon today because it means we are now moving into more solid Greek history.  Unlike Theseus who can be placed into the category of myth, and Lycurgus who sits maybe halfway between man and myth, we can be pretty certain that Solon really existed and when he existed.  The year that Solon was appointed to arbitrate the differences of the Athenian people is most likely 594-593 BC.  I know you have been eager to get to some actual dates Chris

Chris:  Ha ha, yes it feels good to hear an actual date 

Ryan:  Agreed.  Now Solon is considered one of the Seven Sages, or Seven Wise Men, according to the Classical Greek tradition.  The earliest surviving list of Seven Wise Men comes from Plato’s Protagoras.  Solon expressed his wisdom through poetry – writing in prose was uncommon.  It is said that Solon travelled widely in his younger days - some say that Solon travelled purely to gain wisdom and knowledge, others that he was a merchant, having come from a noble family whose wealth had ebbed and so it fell to Solon to restore their fortune.  For his part, Plutarch sees no shame in Solon possibly engaging in trade to restore his families wealth – pointing out that trade brings home the good things from other countries, increases friendship with their kings, and is a source of valuable experience. 

Chris:  Very good points.......

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Plutarch's Greeks and Romans Podcast draws directly from the ancient biographer's own method, pairing the lives of influential Greek and Roman figures to explore the character and decisions that shaped the classical world. Hosted by Plutarch902, each episode focuses on one of the fifty-plus individuals Plutarch himself deemed essential, moving beyond simple chronology to examine the virtues, vices, and pivotal moments that defined their legacies. You'll hear about founders like Theseus and Romulus, whose myths cemented national identities, and commanders like Alexander the Great, whose ambitions redrew the map of the ancient world. The discussion naturally bridges history, culture, and philosophy, considering how these parallel lives reflect on themes of power, ethics, and leadership that still resonate. This isn't just a recounting of events, but a deep dive into the human qualities behind them, framed by the unique perspective of a writer who was both a Greek and a Roman citizen during the Pax Romana. The podcast builds a complex tapestry, showing how individual ambition, genius, and folly collectively forged two civilizations that continue to underpin so much of modern thought and society. Tune in for a thoughtful, detailed exploration that treats the past as a rich source of insight rather than a distant series of facts.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 22

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