Diogenes the Cynic

A philosopher, whose banker-father was convicted of debasing the public coin, Diogenes was exiled with him to Athens. There, Diogenes joined the school of Cynics. He adopted their principles, renouncing all objects of ambition. He repudiated all forms of wealth and luxury. He wore a coarse cloak, carried a wallet and a staff, and begged for his food. Unable to find a cell, he lived in a ‘pithos,’ or large tub. This was probably only an expression of contempt and disgust, rather than a home.