Xenokleides

Who is Xenokleides?

Xenokleides was a poet of Athens in the 4th century BCE, for whom no works have survived. He was one of the hetaera Neaira's many lovers. In 369 BCE, he spoke out against Callistratus's request to support Sparta over Thebes. He would have no part in the war, although as a resident he was exempt from paying corn taxes. Nevertheless, he was condemned and exposed for his lack of honor. Afterwards, he went to Macedonia in exile, but returned to Athens in 342 BC upon the advance of Philip II. During the trial of Neaira, his dishonor was still known.