Myson

Myson of Chenae (or Che, depending on the source) is one of the lesser-known figures occasionally mentioned as one of the Seven Sages, though his life and contributions are much less documented compared to the more prominent sages like Solon or Thales. Myson's inclusion in the list of sages varies among ancient sources, and details about his life and philosophical contributions are sparse and somewhat obscure. He is said to have lived in Chenae (or Che), a town in Laconia, though some sources ambiguously refer to different locations. The exact dates of his life are uncertain, but he would have lived around the 6th century BCE, consistent with the timeframe associated with the other sages.

While there is little surviving evidence of Myson's specific teachings or philosophical beliefs, he was reputed for his wisdom and was recommended by some ancient sources as deserving inclusion among the sages; Diogenes Laërtius, a 3rd-century CE biographer of the philosophers, includes Myson in his list of the Seven Sages, replacing Periander of Corinth. Diogenes attributes to Myson the maxim, “Excess should be avoided,” which aligns with the broader ethos of moderation that characterizes much of the philosophy associated with the sages.