People > Pigres of Caria

Pigres of Caria

Background

Pigres of Caria is a somewhat obscure figure from ancient history, with his identity and contributions being somewhat ambiguous due to the overlapping references in ancient sources. There are two notable individuals named Pigres from Caria, and both played different roles in ancient history:

Pigres the Brother of Queen Artemisia I

1. Historical Context:

   • Pigres is mentioned as the brother of Queen Artemisia I of Caria, who ruled during the early 5th century BCE.
   • Artemisia I was a prominent naval commander and ally of the Persian king Xerxes I during the Greco-Persian Wars, particularly noted for her participation in the Battle of Salamis in 480 BCE.

2. Role and Influence:

   • Little is known about Pigres's personal achievements or his direct influence on Carian politics.
   • He is mainly mentioned in historical sources in relation to his sister, Queen Artemisia I, who is celebrated for her leadership and strategic acumen.

Pigres the Poet

1. Historical Context:

   • Another Pigres of Caria is known as a poet and writer who lived around the same time period, although exact dates are uncertain.
   • This Pigres is sometimes credited with literary works, including a parody of the epic tradition.

2. Literary Contributions:

   • He is traditionally associated with the "Margites," a comic epic poem. Aristotle referenced the "Margites" in his works, noting its humorous and satirical nature.
   • Pigres is also attributed with an unusual version of the "Iliad" written in "mixed" or "cento" verse, which intersperses hexameter and pentameter lines, though this attribution is not universally accepted.

Significance

1. Cultural Impact:

   • Pigres the Poet's contributions to literature, especially the "Margites," had an influence on the genre of parody and comedic poetry in ancient Greek literature.
   • His work is an early example of literary satire, poking fun at the epic form that was highly regarded in Greek culture.

2. Historical Influence:

   • While Pigres the brother of Artemisia may not have left a significant individual mark in history, his connection to a powerful and notable female ruler highlights the complex dynamics of Carian and Persian politics during the Greco-Persian Wars.
   • Queen Artemisia's prominence and the mention of her family members underscore the interconnectedness of leadership and familial ties in ancient ruling classes.

Conclusion

Pigres of Caria is a name that refers to two distinct historical figures from the same region, each contributing to their era in different ways. The brother of Queen Artemisia I remains a minor figure overshadowed by his sister's military and political achievements. In contrast, Pigres the Poet is noted for his contributions to early Greek satire and parody. Both figures reflect the diverse cultural and political landscape of Caria during the early 5th century BCE.

References

Herodotus, vii. 98.