Stoicism was the most influential philosophy in the Roman Empire during the period preceding the rise of Christianity. The philosophy originated in Greece, however, and was based on the order of the universe. The philosophy itself emphasized ethics as the main field of knowledge, but also contained theories of natural science to support the ethical doctrines (Rist). The early stoic stage included the teachings of Zeno of Citium, Cleanthes of Assos, and Chrysippus of Soli, which envisioned a universal community of mankind, with order behind confusion and a rational plan in nature (Reesor).
             Zeno was born in Citium in Cyprus, which had a large Phonecian population, around 336 BC. A merchant by trade, he was shipwrecked as a young man, and moved to Athens. He lived there for the rest of his life, although he never did become a citizen. He became interested in the various philosophical schools of Athens, especially that of Crates the teacher of Cynicism (Rist). Eventually, he began to teach his own version of cynicism, which was a blend of the Greek philosophy of Crates and Eastern mysticism (Russell). His new school of philosophy became known as Stoicism, after the Painted Stoa in the Athenian market from which he taught. His interest was primarily ethical, like Socrates, and he believed in the powers of disciplined human reason to secure both deep insight into the cosmos and happiness in a person's own life. None of Zeno's works have survived, so contemporary students of Stoicism must depend upon quotations and anecdotes in the works of his followers and critics for information (Rist).
             After Zeno's death around 264 BC, Cleanthes of Assos presided over his school. Cleanthes was born in 331 BC in Assos, Lydia. He visited Athens as a wrestler, and like Zeno, became interested in philosophy and a follower of Crates. He eventually broke away and became a disciple of Zeno and an advocate of his doctrine. By night...