Theophrastus
Greek philosopher (c.371-c.287 BC)
Theophrastus (Greek: Θεόφραστος; c. 371 – c. 287 BC), a Greek native of Eresos in Lesbos, was the successor to Aristotle in the Peripatetic school.
Theophrastus | |
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![]() Statue of Theophrastus | |
Born | c. 371 BC |
Died | c. 287 BC |
Era | Ancient philosophy |
Region | Western Philosophy |
School | Peripatetic school |
Main interests | Botany, ethics, grammar, history, logic, metaphysics, natural history, physics |
He came to Athens at a young age and studied in Plato's school. After Plato's death, he attached himself to Aristotle. Aristotle left his writings to Theophrastus, and named Theophrastus the new leader of the Lyceum.
Theophrastus led the Peripatetic school for thirty-six years, during which time the school was very successful. He is often considered the "father of botany" for his works on plants. After his death, the Athenians honoured him with a public funeral. His successor as head of the school was Strato of Lampsacus.
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