In math class, this ancient Greek should ring a bell, as Pythagoras of Samos was a great Greek philosopher, and also known as the founder of a religious movement known as Pythagoreanism. As a decent mathematician, he also wore the hat of a mystic and scientist. In this article, you will also learn a bit about the words and life of Pyrrus and Pindar.
Pythagoras
However, you probably remember him by his Pythagorean theorem that led to his nickname of “the master of numbers.” His contributions to philosophy and religion are pretty well known, starting to emerge during the late 6th century. It is also the term of philosopher (lover of wisdom) that Pythagoras first used to describe himself.
Unluckily, it is a shame that none of his writing survived over time. All that he has accomplished is also shrouded in mystery, as many of his achievements could have very well been attributed to his colleagues and successors. Very little is known about the man himself. However, these words have lived in his memory:
” The highest of duties is honor to self.”
Pyrrhus
The ruler and general named Pyrrhus penned Memoir, which was about war and still moved many ancient leaders of his time and beyond. Overall, he was seen as one of the most triumphant of ancient Greek generals who thrived during the Hellenistic era.
From 297 BC, he served as King of a tribe in Molossia and ruled over Epirus (from 306 BC to 301, and 297 BC to 272 BC (his death)) He also took over Macedon from 288 BC to 284 BC and in 273 as well. Early Romans feared Pyrrhus, who was revered as a worthy opponent. When analyzing his battles, some of them (however a success) cost a lot of losses. Out of this, the term “Pyrrhic victory” was coined.
Despite any losses he may have incurred, he was seen as one of the greatest in military command of his years. Hannibal ranked Pyrrhus as one of the best , beaten only by Alexander the Great in his eyes. Words to remember him by include:
” It is impossible for anyone to avoid his fate.”
Pindar
In a village in Boarotis, Pindar (or Pindarus) was born and grew up to become a welcomed Greek lyric poet. Out of the canonical lyric poets that I previously mentioned, he is one of the nine. Out of all the other lyric poets, it is the works of Pindar that has been well preserved. Throughout the years, many critics have viewed him as one of the best.
Pindar also wrote hymns, choral tunes, funeral songs, victory cheers, and even dance tunes. During his time, he was known as a poet for hire and would pen songs to pay homage to whoever would pay him. He was also quite popular in bringing the spirit to an event in which he was given money to commemorate. To get an idea of some of the events he wrote songs for , he tackled the four main athletic events held during ancient Greek times , such as the Olympics. A few quotes attributed to Pindar include:
1) “For those who are honorable, time is the best of champions.”
2) “Come, sweet hope,
Who guides our wandering purpose,
Treads at our side, and gladdens our hearts!”
3) “Unsung, the noblest deed will die.”