Hegesianax of Alexandria Troas (Ἑγησηναξ Ἀλεξανδρότροιανός) was a Greek writer from the Troad active in the 2nd century BCE, likely during the reign of Antiochus III the Great (222–187 BCE) [1]. He is sometimes identified with an ambassador of Antiochus III to Rome in 190 BCE, though this is uncertain [1][2]. He was a contemporary and possible friend of the poet Aratus of Soli [1].

His known works include the Troica (Τρωικά), a history or mythological account of the Trojan War and the Troad region, and a work on Phrygia (Φρυγιακά) [1][2]. Some ancient sources also credited him with the epic poem Cypria (Κύπρια), an attribution that placed him in debates over the authorship of the Epic Cycle [1][2]. All his works are lost, surviving only in fragments cited by later authors.

Hegesianax’s significance lies in these fragments, which were used as sources by later historians and mythographers like Strabo [1][2]. His writings exemplify the Hellenistic antiquarian interest in local histories and the reconstruction of mythic pasts.

Sources 1. Oxford Research Encyclopedia of Classics: Hegesianax: https://oxfordre.com/classics/view/10.1093/acrefore/9780199381135.001.0001/acrefore-9780199381135-e-2962 2. Perseus Digital Library, Smith's Dictionary of Greek and Roman Biography and Mythology: Hegesianax: http://www.perseus.tufts.edu/hopper/text?doc=Perseus%3Atext%3A1999.04.0104%3Aentry%3Dhegesianax-bio-1