Leonteus of Lampsacus (Greek: Λεοντεύς) was a pupil of Epicurus early in the 3rd century BCE. He was the husband of Themista, who also attended Epicurus' school.[1] Such was the esteem in which they held Epicurus that they named their son after him.[1]

Leonteus is described by Strabo, as one of "the ablest men in the city" of Lampsacus, along with Idomeneus.[2] Plutarch describes a letter, written by Leonteus, in which Leonteus describes how Democritus was honoured by Epicurus "for having anticipated him in getting hold of correct knowledge," and how Epicurus originally proclaimed himself a "Democritean."[3]

Notes

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  1. ^ a b Diogenes Laertius, x.
  2. ^ Strabo, 13.1.19.
  3. ^ Plutarch, Against Colotes 3, 1108e–f.