The first comprehensive guide to eccentrics around the world, from the ancient Athenian philosopher Diogenes, who challenged his society's conventions by living in a barrel, to the most original and free-spirited individuals of today. In 266 lively entries, famous eccentrics like King Ludwig of Bavaria, Salvador Dal- and Howard Hughes rub shoulders with a host of lesser known but equally colourful characters, some of whose stories are told here for the first time.