Guthrie, W. K. C.

William Keith Chambers Guthrie (1 August 1906 – 17 May 1981) was a Scottish classical scholar, best known for his *History of Greek Philosophy*, published in six volumes between 1962 and his death. He served as Laurence Professor of Ancient Philosophy at the University of Cambridge from 1952 to 1973 and as master of Downing College, Cambridge from 1957 to 1972. Born in London to Scottish parents, Guthrie studied classics at Trinity College, Cambridge, where he excelled and received distinctions. He held various academic posts, including a fellowship at Peterhouse and later becoming university proctor and orator. During World War II, he served in the Intelligence Corps. Post-war, he rose to become Laurence Professor of Ancient Philosophy and Master of Downing College. His magnum opus, *A History of Greek Philosophy*, was a monumental undertaking that explored the development of philosophical thought from the pre-Socratics to Aristotle. Guthrie's approach was rooted in historical contextualization, viewing ancient philosophers within their own time rather than anachronistically within the entire philosophical canon.