Greek Myths XS: Damon and Pythias

In Shakespeare’s Hamlet, the prince of Danmark adresses his best friend Horatio as “Oh Damon dear…” This is a reference to an ancient Greek myth about friendship. Damon and Pythias were devout followers of the philosopher Pythagoras and travelled the world to preach an austere and sincere life. On the isle of Sicily, Pythias was arrested by king Dionysius, on the accusation of plotting against him. Although being innocent, Pythias accepted the death penalty. He just asked for permission to settle his affairs back home, and bid his family farewell. The king reluctantly agreed, when Damon offered himself as a hostage, to be executed in Pythias’ place, should he not return. It was close, but Pythias arrived just in time, explaining that pirates had captured the ship, and he had to jump overboard, swim to shore and make his way back on foot. Astonished by this level of loyalty, Dionysius pardoned both men. He then sought to become their third friend, but as they say: Two is company, three is a crowd.

Still from "Damon and Pythias", Universal Pictures, 1914

Damon and Pythias, ill. "The Story of the Greeks", Helene Guerber

Did you know?

• About Pythagoras: cfr. “The First Veggie” and “Reincarnation”.

• Dionysius I (432-367 B.C.) was a Greek tyrant of the colony of Syracuse, Sicily. He was the prototype of the despot: cruel, suspicious and vindictive.