Trophonius the Oracle (Τροφώνιος ὁ Μαντεῖος) The name Trophonius is not associated with a historical author of orations but with a mythological hero and oracular cult. In legend, Trophonius was a son of Erginus or Apollo, renowned as an architect with his brother Agamedes [1]. After death, he became the chthonic deity presiding over a famous oracle in a cave at Lebadeia in Boeotia [1][2].

No orations or written works by an author named Trophonius the Oracle are attested. Ancient descriptions of the figure instead detail the rituals of his oracular cult, as recorded by authors like Pausanias and Plutarch [1][2].

The significance of Trophonius lies in Greek religion. His oracle at Lebadeia was a major site for incubation rituals, where consultants descended to receive dream prophecies [1][2]. Its practices, distinct from the Delphic oracle, were consulted by notable historical figures including Demetrius Poliorcetes and Sulla, making it a well-documented chthonic institution [1][2].

Sources 1. Encyclopædia Britannica: Trophonius. https://www.britannica.com/topic/Trophonius 2. World History Encyclopedia: Trophonius. https://www.worldhistory.org/Trophonius/