Timanthes of Cleonae

Summary

Timanthes of Cleonae (Ancient Greek: Τιμάνθης) was an ancient victor of the Pankration from Cleonae.[1][2] A statue of him was created by Myron.[2]

Ancient sources wrote that when he retired from athletics he continued to test his strength by drawing a great bow every day. His practice with the bow was interrupted during a period when he was away from home. When he returned, he was no longer able to bend the bow. Because of that he lit a fire and threw himself alive into it.[1][2] Pausanias wrote that according to him this should be regarded as an act of madness rather than of courage.[2] Suda also wrote what Pausanias believed.[1]

References edit

  1. ^ a b c Suda, § tau.593
  2. ^ a b c d Pausanias, Description of Greece, 6.8.4