In the work of an outstanding Russian historian of philosophy (2nd ed. - 1976) the development of ancient philosophy from the formation period (Milesian and Pythagorean schools) to the rise of high classics (Socrates, Plato, Aristotle) and further to the teachings of the Hellenistic era (stoicism, skepticism, epicureanism) is considered in detail. The study concludes with a review of the evolution of neoplatonism, which had a special impact on the formation of Christian patristics.