Croesus and Solon
Croesus, the fabulously wealthy king of Lydia, shows Solon the Athenian lawgiver all his treasures and asks who is the happiest man Solon has ever seen. To Croesus's irritation, Solon names first Tellos (an ordinary Athenian who lived well and died honorably in battle) and then Cleobis and Biton (two young men who died peacefully after a great act of filial piety). When Croesus demands to know why he doesn't count, Solon explains that human life is subject to chance and that no one can be called happy until their life has ended well. Croesus dismisses him as foolish. The note reveals that Croesus later remembered Solon's warning when he was defeated by Cyrus of Persia.
The Text
What You'll Learn
Comprehension
Explains that Solon, the Athenian lawgiver, visits Croesus the wealthy king of Lydia
Cause & Consequence
Explains why Tellos was happy: prosperous city, good children, honorable death in battle, public burial
Meaning
Takes a position on whether Solon or Croesus is right about happiness
Evidence
Cites a specific passage or phrase from the text
Defense
Maintains or thoughtfully revises their position under challenge
How It Works
Your AI tutor will guide you through this text using the Socratic method. Instead of giving you answers, it asks questions that help you discover the meaning for yourself.
- 1.Read the text carefully
- 2.Answer the tutor's questions in your own words
- 3.Progress through each stage as you demonstrate understanding
Free to try. No credit card required.