Polycrate (Polycrates)
Also known as: Polycrate (Polycrates), Polycrates, Polycrate
People · Mentioned
Show in diary 3 mentions Research Status: Basic Last Updated: 2025-07-06 Diary Coverage: Up to 1874-03-25
Identity
Polycrates, tyrant of Samos (c. 538-522 BCE), referenced by Marie in self-reflection.Diary References
1874
- March 25: Marie addresses herself: "Tu es un petit Polycrate, ma chère" (You are a little Polycrates, my dear).
Context
- Greek tyrant famous for excessive good fortune
- Subject of Herodotus's story about throwing ring into sea
- Ring returned in fish belly - unable to escape fate
- Marie compares herself after sacrificing prayer for racehorses
- Shows classical education
Related Entries
- Classical references and education
Research Notes
- Story warns against hubris and excessive fortune
- Marie fears asking for too much from God
- Self-aware about her privileged position
- Reference shows sophisticated education
Most of this glossary was researched with the help of AI language models and checked against the sources cited; mistakes are possible. If you spot one, please report it with the button at the top of the page.