Myson of Chenae remains one of the lesser-known figures in Greek philosophical and moral traditions but holds a unique place in history due to the ancient Greek philosopher Plato’s recognition of him as a sage over the more widely acknowledged Periander. Though details about his life and teachings are scarce, his inclusion among the Seven Sages of Greece in some accounts attests to his wisdom and influence.
Myson of Chenae is an enigmatic figure. His historical presence is not as well-documented as that of other sages like Solon or Thales. Surviving texts rarely mention the town of Chenae, sparking speculation about its location.
Some scholars suggest it was a minor city-state in ancient Ionia or another region of Greece. Unlike Periander, the tyrant of Corinth, Myson was likely a man of simpler, probably village, origins. Myson himself attributed his obscurity to this fact.
Aristoxenus mentions him as having a reclusive nature and misanthropic tendencies. He describes him as a man who avoided social interactions and preferred solitude. One famous anecdote about him tells when he was found laughing alone. When asked why he was laughing with no one around, Myson reportedly replied:
“That is exactly why I laugh.”
This story highlights his independence of thought and disdain for the folly of human affairs. His preference for solitude and self-reflection distinguished him from other sages, who often engaged in political or civic matters.
He used to say that we should not build our understanding of facts on arguments, but instead, we must examine arguments based on facts. According to the doxographer Diogenes Laërtius, he lived to the age of ninety-seven.
Plato’s preference for Myson over Periander as one of the Seven Sages is a significant detail. It challenges the traditional list established by other sources. In his dialogue ”Protagoras”, Plato presents a different version of the Seven Sages, omitting Periander and replacing him with Myson. This decision suggests that Plato viewed wisdom as distinct from political cunning or autocratic rule. People renowned Periander for his governance, but they also associated him with harsh measures and tyranny. In contrast, Myson’s inclusion implies that his wisdom is aligned with ethical reflection and virtuous living.
Plato’s text states: “Let us name the wise men again: Thales of Miletus, Pittacus of Mytilene, Bias of Priene, Solon of Athens, Cleobulus of Lindos, Myson of Chenae, and Chilon of Sparta. These are the men whose fame as wise is greatest among the Hellenes.”
Here, Plato explicitly recognized Myson. This highlights that wisdom’s true origin is not in rulership but in ethical philosophy and a deeper understanding of human nature to him.
While few of Myson’s direct teachings survive, they connect him with practical wisdom and moral integrity. According to Diogenes Laertius, Myson’s philosophy emphasized simplicity, self-sufficiency, and virtuous conduct. He used to advise people:
“Do not seek honor in the crowd, but seek wisdom in solitude.”
This contrasts with the political machinations of figures like Periander, who marked their legacy by power and control rather than introspection and moral integrity.
The Oracle of Delphi, an important religious and cultural institution in ancient Greece, reportedly acknowledged Myson’s wisdom. According to some accounts, when asked who the wisest man was, the Oracle named Myson, further solidifying his reputation among the Greeks. This divine recognition suggests that his wisdom was esteemed beyond philosophical circles and held in high regard by broader society.
The Greek philosopher and mathematician Eudoxus of Cnidus also mentioned Myson but omitted to include Cleobulus instead of Periander among the sages. Eudoxus, a student of Plato and a key figure in early Greek science and philosophy, considered Myson a model of practical wisdom. Anacharsis, the famous Scythian philosopher known for his sharp observations on Greek customs, also spoke of Myson with respect. This acknowledgment from a non-Greek thinker highlights Myson’s broader appeal and his reputation for wisdom that transcended regional boundaries.
People typically include Periander of Corinth in lists of the Seven Sages, recognizing his strategic intelligence but ruthless policies. He implemented economic reforms and strengthened Corinth’s power, but his reign was also marked by cruelty. Stories of his oppressive rule, such as the killing of his own wife and harsh treatment of political opponents, cast a shadow over his wisdom.
Plato’s exclusion of Periander and inclusion of Myson may indicate a philosophical stance. He believed that true wisdom is not about ruling others but about understanding the self and living virtuously. This distinction is crucial in Greek thought, as the tradition of the Greek philosopher Socrates values ethical contemplation over political dominance.
Myson of Chenae, though less famous than other sages, holds a unique place in philosophical history due to Plato’s endorsement. His wisdom, rooted in simplicity and moral clarity, contrasts sharply with Periander’s political acumen. Historical records on Myson are limited. However, his recognition by one of antiquity’s greatest philosophers underscores the importance of ethical wisdom over mere political strategy. His legacy invites us to reflect on the true nature of wisdom and its role in both personal and societal well-being.
