This book investigates the historical figure of Apollonius of Tyana, a Greek philosopher from antiquity, aiming to reconstruct his true identity and significance. Drawing upon early biographers, extant texts, literature, sayings, sermons, writings, and letters, the author seeks to provide valuable insight into this famous ancient thinker. The work examines the available evidence to present a comprehensive portrait of Apollonius's life and philosophy.

The book, published in 1901, offers a focused exploration of Apollonius of Tyana based on the available historical and literary evidence of the time. Its brevity is noted, yet it is described as providing valuable insight into the philosopher's life and thought. The approach taken by the author is to meticulously examine the sources to understand who Apollonius truly was.