Epicurus was born in Samos, the birthplace of Pythagoras. At the age of 18, he moved to Athens to serve for two years in the military, after which he taught near his hometown. In 307 B.C., at the age of 35, he returned to Athens to establish a philosophical school, known as the 'Garden,' which was open to women and persons from all social classes. It was not only an academic institution but also a community of persons dedicated to living in accordance with Epicurean principles. He remained in the city until his death, living simply and quietly. He was a prodigious writer, but only a few letters and fragments remain
of his work.
