《世界上最美丽的英文》(21)

一位值得纪念的希腊人

Diogenes was a famous Greek philosopher of the fourth century B.C.,who established the philosophy of

cynicism.He often walked about in the daytime holding a lighted lantern,peering around as if he were looking for

something.When

auestioned about his odd behavior,he would reply,"I am searching for an honest man."

Diogenes held that the good man was self-sufficient and did not require material comforts or wealth.He

believed that

wealth and possessions constrained humanity's natural state of freedom.In keeping with his philosophy,he

was

perefectly satisfied with making his home in a large tub discarded from the temple of Cybele,the goddess

of nature.

This earthen tub,called a pithos,and formerly been used for holding wine or oil for the sacrifices at the

temple.

One day,Alexander the Great ,conqueror of half the civilized world,saw Diogenes sitting in this tub in the

sunshine

.So the king,surrounded by his countries,approached Diogenes and said,"I am Alexander the Great."The

philosopher

replied rather contemptuously,"I am Diogenes,the Cynic."Alexander then asked him if he could help him in

any way."

Yes,"shot back Diogenes,"don't stand between me and the sun."A