Stobaeus refers to Johannes Stobaeus, a Greek philosopher and compiler best known for his work "Anthology," also known as "Stobaeus' Florilegium" or "Stobaeus' Anthologium." This collection is an important textual record in philosophy and literature, preserving fragments of various ancient Greek and Roman works that have been lost over time.
Stobaeus' "Anthology" is organized thematically, touching upon a wide range of subjects such as ethics, metaphysics, physics, nature, mythology, and religion. The fragments included in this anthology provide valuable insights into the teachings of numerous pre-Socratic, Socratic, and post-Socratic philosophers like Heraclitus, Plato, and Aristotle, shedding light on their perspectives and doctrines.
Due to its comprehensive nature, Stobaeus' anthology plays a significant role in our understanding of ancient philosophy and intellectual history. While many works have been lost or preserved only in fragmented form, Stobaeus' efforts have allowed us to glimpse the wisdom and ideas of thinkers who may have otherwise been lost to obscurity.
Yet, it is important to note that Stobaeus himself is not an original philosopher but rather a compiler and commentator. His contribution lies in his dedication to collecting and preserving these fragments, ensuring their survival and subsequent influence on generations to come.
In summary, Stobaeus refers to Johannes Stobaeus and his "Anthology," a compilation of fragments from various ancient Greek and Roman works that hold immense significance for our understanding of philosophy and intellectual history.
