Epicharmus of Cos
Greek dramatist and philosopher, originator of Doric comedy.
He is often credited as one of the first comedic writers, having originated the Doric or Sicilian comedic form.
- field
- Drama, philosophy
- nationality
- Greek (Sicilian/Doric tradition)
- known_for
- Originating Doric/Sicilian comedy; writing mythological burlesques and character comedies; influencing Plato
Lore & Background
Most biographical information about Epicharmus is considered suspect. Ancient commentators offer conflicting accounts of his birthplace: the Suda records that he was either Syracusan or from the Sikanian city of Krastos; Diogenes Laërtius states he was born in Astypalea, the ancient capital of Kos, and that his father was the physician Helothales, who moved the family to Megara in Sicily when Epicharmus was a few months old. Although raised in the Asclepiad tradition, as an adult he became a follower of Pythagoras.
Reader's Guide
Epicharmus wrote between thirty-five and fifty-two comedies, most now lost or fragmentary. His works included mythological travesties and character comedies, such as 'Agrōstīnos' (The Country-Dweller) and 'Hebes Gamos' (The Marriage of Hebe), which portrayed Heracles as a glutton. He also parodied Homer in 'Odysseùs Autómolos' (Ulysses the Deserter). Aristotle credits him and Phormis with inventing comic plots. Plato mentions Epicharmus in the Gorgias and Theaetetus, where Socrates calls him 'the prince of Comedy.' A late tradition, preserved by Diogenes Laërtius citing Alcimus, claims that Plato plagiarized several ideas from Epicharmus. His philosophical teachings included the idea that continuous exercise of virtue could overcome heredity. A bronze statue was dedicated to him in Syracuse, with an epigram by Theocritus.
Did You Know?
- Epicharmus is credited with originating the Doric or Sicilian comedic form.
- Aristotle wrote that Epicharmus and Phormis invented comic plots (muthoi).
- A late accusation by Alcimus, preserved by Diogenes Laërtius, claims Plato transcribed many ideas from Epicharmus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was Epicharmus actually born?
His birthplace is genuinely disputed among ancient sources, with candidates including Syracuse, Krastos, Astypalea, and the island of Kos. The 'of Cos' designation is likely a later convention, and no single origin has been confirmed by surviving evidence.
What kind of plays did Epicharmus write?
His surviving fragments point to two main types: mythological burlesques that parodied well-known stories, and character comedies built around stock personalities. These works were performed in the Doric/Sicilian comedic tradition he is credited with establishing.
Why is Epicharmus important to the history of comedy?
He is traditionally credited as the originator of the Doric or Sicilian comedic form, making him a foundational figure for all subsequent Greek comedy. His influence can be traced into the work of Plato, who referenced his ideas, and he paved the way for later comic dramatists.
How much of Epicharmus's work survives today?
Only scattered fragments and quotations from other authors remain; no complete play has been preserved. Despite this, ancient writers like Lucian and Plato referenced him enough to establish his reputation as a major comic and philosophical voice of his era.
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