The Philosopher, the Dog and the Wedding: The Story of the Infamous Female Philosopher Hipparchia

Stok (Vincent) paints an inviting and knowledgeable portrait of one of Greece’s more obscure philosophers in this graphic biography. During “the time of Alexander the Great,” Hipparchia (350–280 BCE) spends her days reading and eavesdropping on her father’s philosophical debates. However, when she is sent from Maroneia to Athens as a bridal candidate for a wealthy man, her life takes “a radical turn.” While living with her brother Metrocles and attempting to woo her intended’s aristocratic family, Hipparchia becomes drawn to the cynic Crates and his teachings. Once a monied aristocrat himself, Crates gave away his land and money, choosing to live on the streets. Hipparchia begins dressing as a man to sneak out and join Crates’s discussions on happiness, social values, and morality. These lectures force Hipparchia to address the growing disconnect between her new beliefs and her affluent lifestyle. As the trappings of her status grow suffocating, she begins to long for the life of a dog. Stok’s two-dimensional art style evokes the look of ancient Greek urn paintings, and neatly fills in background details to evoke life in fourth-century BCE Athens. This earnest and accessible account digs into core questions about how to live. (Sept.)