The Cynical philosophical school is well-known for its ascetic approach to life, primarily through its most famous representative, Diogenes of Sinope. However, there were other Cynics with very intriguing life stories. One such figure is Crates of Thebes. He belonged to the highest circles of Theban society and was extremely wealthy. His wealth was estimated by fellow citizens to be 300 talents; to put it in perspective, with 20 talents, a trireme (a three-banked warship), the most expensive ship of that time, could be built. After becoming a student of Diogenes, he distributed all his wealth to the people, choosing instead of riches, a strict and austere Cynic way of life, with meager food, simple clothing, and living under the open sky.
Unlike his teacher known for sharp and mocking criticisms of society and individuals, Crates was a gentle counselor, devoted friend, consoler, and healer of souls. Wherever he went and saw distress, he readily offered help, which led to him being celebrated among the common folk as a higher being, and at the doors of many houses throughout. In Helade, it was written: “Kratet, a kind spirit, may freely enter this home.”
One day, when he was already a teacher and traveling through Helade, he met a brother and sister, Metrokles and Hiparhia from Maroneia in Thrace, members of a distinguished aristocratic family. Many suitors were attracted to Hiparhia because of her beauty and wealth, but at first sight, she fell in love with Kratet and no one could dissuade her from marrying him. Even her parents begged Kratet to dissuade her, which he tried to do, but Hiparhia remained steadfast in her decision. In the end, Kratet placed before her everything he had – a cloak, a bag, and a staff, symbols of Cynic poverty, and said: “Here stands your chosen one and all his possessions.” Unwaveringly, Hiparhia replied: “I am not marrying your possessions, but your character.” Rejecting all suitors, renouncing wealth, she put on a Cynic robe and followed Kratet, thus gaining a reputation as the boldest Hellenic woman.