Aristodemus of Cydathenaeum

Although little is known of his life, his depiction as a member of an earlier generation of Socratic followers places his birth in the early-mid 5th century BCE,[4] a theory supported by his apparent inclusion in Aristophanes' comedy Banqueters[5] of 427.

Scholars assume that his death preceded the end of the 5th century, since he was not present during Socrates' final days in 399 despite being a devoted student.

It is best preserved through his depiction in Xenophon as an admirer of artists who neither prays nor sacrifices due to what he perceives as the gods' lack of need,[4][6] leading some commentators to accredit Aristodemus with a potential brand of Socratic proto-atheism.

[8] Aristodemus' representation in Plato's Symposium has given rise to debate, as scholars have interpreted his character as hubristic,[9] or instead humble and pathetic.

[10] Although the drinking party depicted in the Symposium involved each guest discoursing on the nature of Eros, Aristodemus' own speech was either passed over unreported or never given, perhaps due to his perceived insignificance.