Pempelus Pseudo is an obscure figure from the ancient philosophical tradition. His name, which includes the epithet "the pseudo-Mytilenean," indicates that he was considered falsely associated with the city of Mytilene. The dates attributed to him span an unusually long period from the 3rd century BCE to the 2nd century CE, which may reflect the time when texts under his name were composed rather than his actual lifespan.
He is categorized within the Presocratic school of philosophy, a classification that is chronologically difficult to reconcile with the late dates provided for him. According to the available records, he is credited with authoring a single treatise, but no title or content from this work survives, and no details of his life are known.
Modern scholars interpret this figure as likely being a pseudonymous or mistakenly conflated name in the history of philosophy. His significance lies primarily as an example of how some ancient authors are known only through very late or indirect references, with their historical reality remaining uncertain.
Available Works
Sources
- Oxford Research Encyclopedia Entry (Oxford Research Encyclopedia of Classics) Accessed: 2026-01-26