Diogenes and Alexander

[jan]

I found a portrait of Diogenes and Alexander in a book called Greek Thought, edited by Brunschwig and Lloyd. Diogenes is portrayed peeking out of a barrel or tub and holds a stick in his hand looking at Alexander who stands directly across from him, also holding a stick or rod in his hand. Diogenes appears to be naked and Alexander is portrayed in helmet and appropriate costume. Does anyone know of this particular portrait, who made it, and where it may be seen today? Do you really believe that Alexander meant it when he said that if he were not Alexander, he would have been Diogenes? Was he being sardonic, wise, or cryptic? Any thoughts on this?

[beausefaless]

I wish I could help you with your first two questions as to your third, from their discussion it appeared to be wise and cryptic to me for Alexander always showed plenty of wit unless he was over partaking in the squeeze of the grape. Any corrections would be appreciated.

[ruthaki]

I'm pretty sure I've seen a cartoon-type postcard for sale in Greece with that same picture. One of the funniest books I've ever read (spoofing history but really well researched) is Tom Holt's book "Alexander at the World's End." The character in that is a student of Diogenes and the author portrays the philosopher as an old con-artist. He evidently lived in a big clay pot (the huge kind they used for sewers or big storage pots). I wonder if this is really true though?
Ruth K.

[marcus]

Hi Jan,I know exactly which picture you mean... unfortunately I can't remember who painted it.You could try a search on the Bridgeman Art Library web site, because I'm sure it's featured on there. I think it's http://www.bridgeman.com but I might be wrong - a Google search will definitely throw it up.I totally agree with Ruth, too - "Alexander at the World's End" is a fantastic book, and all the stuff with Diogenes at the beginning is hilarious.All the bestMarcus

[dean]

Hello,I was wanting to post a message regarding the meeting between Alexander and Diogenes this week but since your post is there I might as well take advantage.Just the other week I was at the school where I teach and preparing for the school plays and other annual celebrations. I just happened to overhear two teachers speaking of Diogenes. One teacher contended that Diogenes had met Alexander and the other said that Diogenes belonged to an earlier period.Hearing Alexander's name mentioned my ears immediately pricked up and I told them that both had met and went on to mention the quote- "If I were not Alexander, I would want to be Diogenes".Afterwards I found myself wondering why a man like Alexander would have said something like that- maybe it stemmed from a desire for no responsibility- in the face of maximum responsibility which he found himself in??????Best regards,
Dean.

[jan]

Thanks, Dean,I appreciate that. I have wondered the same thing, interpreting it as a bit like the phrase There for the Grace of God go I.

[X]

Or the fact that Diogenes didn't give a rap for who Alexander was- but was going to live his life as HE saw fit kowtowing to no man

[Kit]

Hi Dean,To quote Peter Green-"both men shared a certain stubborn intransigence, evinced in the strenuous efforts of one to withdraw from the world and of the other to subjugate it."Maybe Alexander could recognise that Diogenes was attempting to achieve the same aim, through a different method?regards,Kit.