Eratosthenes

Calculated Earth's circumference

Ancient influential 69 sayings

Sayings by Eratosthenes

The sun casts no shadow in Syene at the summer solstice.

c. 240 BCE — A key observation for his Earth circumference calculation.
Humorous Unverifiable

The world is not a perfect sphere, but an oblate spheroid.

N/A — While later proven, it's unlikely he had the means to assert this definitively.
Humorous Unverifiable

Geography is the study of the Earth as the home of man.

c. 200 BCE — A foundational concept he championed, though precise wording may vary in translations.
Humorous Unverifiable

The stars are not just pretty lights, but objects to be studied.

c. 230 BCE — Implicit in his astronomical work, but not a direct quote.
Humorous Unverifiable

I am not afraid to challenge established wisdom.

c. 220 BCE — Reflected in his scientific approach, but probably not a direct quote.
Humorous Unverifiable

The library at Alexandria is the greatest treasure in the world.

c. 240 BCE — As its chief librarian, he likely held this view, but direct quote is elusive.
Humorous Unverifiable

I have spent my life seeking knowledge.

c. 200 BCE — A general statement reflecting his life's work.
Humorous Unverifiable

Alexander ignored his advisers by his regard for all people with law and government.

3rd century BCE (recounted by Strabo) — Arguing against the common Greek-Barbarian dichotomy, suggesting a more inclusive view of humanity, …
Shocking Unverifiable

Eratosthenes refused to accept the popular understanding of any subject and sought always to find out the truth of a matter for himself.

3rd century BCE (description of his methodology) — Describing his skeptical and independent approach to knowledge, influenced by his Academic Skepticis…
Shocking Unverifiable