Philiscus of Athens (Φίλισκος ὁ Ἀθηναῖος) was a Greek comic poet of the 4th century BCE, active during the period of Middle Comedy [1]. Ancient sources identify him as a contemporary and rival of poets like Anaxandrides. The Suda also records that he served as a priest of Dionysus [2].

Three comedies are attributed to him: Adonis, Medea, and Hellas (or Hellenis), all now lost [2]. The titles indicate a use of mythological themes, with Medea treating the Jason myth and Adonis the story of Aphrodite’s beloved youth.

Philiscus exemplifies the transition toward Middle Comedy, moving from the political satire of Old Comedy toward more generalized social and mythological plots. His recorded priesthood connects him to the religious institutions of Athenian theater, and his rivalries situate him within the competitive landscape of 4th-century Athenian drama [1, 2].

Sources 1. Encyclopædia Britannica: https://www.britannica.com/art/comedy 2. Perseus Digital Library, Suda Encyclopedia, entry for Philiskos: https://www.perseus.tufts.edu/hopper/text?doc=Perseus%3Atext%3A1999.04.0057%3Aentry%3Dphi%2Fliskos