Who is Aristophanes?
Aristophanes was a Greek playwright and philosopher who lived from 450 BCE to around 385 BCE. Little is known about the personal history of this man, although he was obviously highly educated and celebrated in Greek society, but his plays survive as a fascinating record of a turbulent period in Greek history. Many students of Ancient Greece read the plays of Aristophanes to learn more about the ancient tradition of Greek drama and the historical conditions in Athens during the period in which Aristophanes lived. What is known about Aristophanes is that he was born into a reasonably wealthy family which could afford to educate him well. He was obviously deeply interested in Greek philosophy and current events, and he was one of an illustrious group of Greek playwrights who offered comedic commentaries on Greek life and society. Evidence also suggests that Aristophanes enjoyed some fame during his lifetime, and that he was probably a celebrated member of Greek society. It is estimated th
