Solon – Biography, Philosophy, Reforms, Accomplishments, & Quotes

More Solon of Athens Facts

Solon’s reforms helped put a temporary end of the political, economic and social decline of Athenian society. | Image: Solon is depicted as a medieval scholar in the Nuremberg Chronicle

  • According to Dogenes Laertius, Solon was the brother of Dropides, who was an ancestor of Greek philosopher and scientist Plato.
  • Solon’s political thoughts and philosophy were said to be one that placed immense emphasis on moderation.
  • Much of what we know about the Greek Solon comes from the law codes that he institutionalized, as well as oral traditions from those institutions. Back in Solon’s time, history or biographies as we know today were not something that the Greeks loved to write. It’s been stated that it was not until the late 5th century BCE that authors began putting down in text the life and accomplishments of statesmen like Solon.
  • In one of Solon’s poems, the economic reforms instituted by the legislator were termed as “shaking off the burdens” (seisachtheia).
  • Due to how effective he was able to use his poems to inspire, counsel and warn Greeks, Solon was described as the first poet in Athens.
  • Solon’s reforms, systems and humane code of laws have received enormous praise as they allowed for power to be balanced.

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