Theano c. 546 BC – c. 470 BC
Theano (c. 546 BC – c. 470 BC) was a Greek philosopher of the Ancient era, associated with Pre-Socratic and Ancient Greek Philosophy.
Theano of Croton was a Greek Pythagorean philosopher of the late sixth and early fifth century BC and one of the earliest women in the Western philosophical tradition. According to different ancient reports she was the wife or the pupil of Pythagoras and the mother of Damo, Telauges, Myia, and Arignote, all of them credited as Pythagoreans in their own right. A small body of writings on numbers, virtue, moderation, and family life circulated under her name in antiquity, including a series of letters of practical philosophical counsel. She has remained a touchstone for the recovery of the history of women in philosophy.
Key facts
- Nationality
- Greek
- Era
- Ancient
- Movements
- Pre-Socratic, Ancient Greek Philosophy
Selected quotes
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Attributed to Theano:
“Number is the principle of all things.”
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Attributed to Theano:
“A woman should never repeat what is heard within the home.”
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Attributed to Theano:
“Live virtuously, and forgive easily.”
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Attributed to Theano:
“Friendship is the harmony of souls in pursuit of the good.”
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Attributed to Theano:
“It is right to keep silence about what is sacred.”
Theano by topic
Frequently asked about Theano
- When did Theano live?
- Theano was born in c. 546 BC and died in c. 470 BC.
- Where was Theano from?
- Theano was a Greek philosopher of the Ancient era.
- What philosophical movements is Theano associated with?
- Theano was associated with Pre-Socratic and Ancient Greek Philosophy.
- What was Theano known for?
- Theano of Croton was a Greek Pythagorean philosopher of the late sixth and early fifth century BC and one of the earliest women in the Western philosophical tradition.
- How many quotes are attributed to Theano?
- There are 7 attributed quotations from Theano in the 1001Philosophers collection, organized by topic.