Theocritus
(c.310-250BC)
Born in Syracusae,
lived on the island Kos
and also spent time in Egypt under Ptolemy II, Theocritus was to become the
creator of pastoral poet. He wrote about shepherd life and about life in the
cities as well as mythology.
Theocritus was the last poet to write in the Dorian dialect. The popular figures
of shepherds and shepherdesses in porcelain are almost originated on the poems
of Theocritus.
"Sweeter, shepherd, and more subtle is your song
Than the tuneful splashing of that waterfall
Among the rocks. If the Muses pick the ewe
As their reward, you'll win the hand-raised lamb;
If they prefer the lamb, the ewe is yours."
Theocritus, The Idylls
