Poliochus the Comic Poet (Πολιόχος ὁ κωμικός) was a poet of Middle Comedy active in the 4th century BCE [1]. He is an obscure figure, known primarily through quotations by the scholar Athenaeus in the Deipnosophistae. No biographical details about his life survive [1].

Two fragmentary plays are attributed to him: Dionysius (Διονύσιος) and The Woman from Crete (ἡ Κρησία). Both are preserved only in citations by Athenaeus [1].

Poliochus exemplifies the many minor comic poets of his era whose works are now lost. His significance lies in Athenaeus’s preservation of fragments that offer insight into the themes and language of Middle Comedy, which shifted from direct political satire toward social humor and mythological parody. The title Dionysius suggests engagement with contemporary figures, placing him within this broader tradition [1].

Sources 1. Perseus Digital Library (Tufts University): https://www.perseus.tufts.edu/hopper/text?doc=Perseus%3Atext%3A2013.01.0001%3Abook%3D1%3Achapter%3D1%3Asection%3D1a (Search for "Poliochus" within Athenaeus's Deipnosophistae; fragments are found in Books 3, 7, and 11).