Demetrius the Cynic

Demetrius, a Cynic philosopher from Corinth, lived in Rome during the reigns of Caligula, Nero, and Vespasian (37–71 AD). He was a close friend of Seneca, who often wrote about him, describing him as a "perfect man" and a model of wisdom and integrity. Demetrius's disdain for material wealth was evident in his response to Caligula, who offered him a large sum of money; Demetrius replied that the emperor should have offered his entire kingdom if he wished to tempt him. He was also a friend of Thrasea Paetus and was present when Thrasea was condemned to death in 66 AD. Later, around 70 AD, Demetrius defended Publius Egnatius Celer against charges brought by Musonius Rufus. In 71 AD, Vespasian exiled Demetrius from Rome along with all other philosophers. He is sometimes identified with Demetrius of Sunium, but this identification is uncertain due to the commonness of the name Demetrius.