Aeschrion of Samos (Αἰσχρίων ὁ Σάμιος)

Life Aeschrion of Samos was an iambic poet of the 4th century BCE, a contemporary of Aristotle and possibly Alexander the Great [1]. The sole biographical notice comes from the 10th-century Suda, which identifies him as a Samian writer of iambics [2].

Works His work survives only in fragments. The Suda credits him with two works: Iamboi (Ἰάμβοι) and Paignia (Παίγνια), or "Playful Verses" [2]. The few extant lines, preserved by authors like Athenaeus, include a fragment defending the famous courtesan Phryne from impiety charges, indicating Aeschrion’s connection to prominent social circles of his era [1][2].

Significance Aeschrion represents a later phase of the iambic tradition. His fragment concerning Phryne provides a valuable contemporary poetic perspective on a notable historical trial. Though the scant remains limit full literary assessment, his work contributes to the understanding of Hellenistic iambic poetry and its social context [1][2].

Sources 1. Perseus Digital Library (Tufts University): http://www.perseus.tufts.edu/hopper/text?doc=Perseus%3Atext%3A1999.04.0057%3Aentry%3Dai)sxri%2Fwn 2. ToposText: https://topostext.org/author/356