Aristotle

Aristotle was one of the greatest thinkers of the ancient world. He was born in Stagira, Greece, in 384 BC. He studied under Plato and later taught Alexander the Great. He wrote about nearly every subject, from science to art to government.

Early Life

Aristotle's father was a doctor. At age 17, he went to Athens to study at Plato's Academy. He stayed for 20 years as a student and teacher. After leaving the Academy, he tutored the young prince who would become Alexander the Great.

Big Achievements

Aristotle started his own school called the Lyceum. He wrote about biology, physics, poetry, music, and government. He classified animals into groups, which was the beginning of modern biology. His ideas dominated European thinking for nearly 2,000 years.

Fun Facts

• Aristotle tutored Alexander the Great when Alexander was a teenager.
• He wrote about over 400 different topics.
• His students were called Peripatetics because he taught while walking around.

Did You Know?

Aristotle's writings were lost for centuries and then rediscovered. They shaped the thinking of scholars in the Islamic world and medieval Europe. He is one of the most influential people in the history of human thought.