# Sophocles — Essays character guide

> Sophocles in Essays by Ralph Waldo Emerson.

**Role:** minor

**Also known as:** Sophocles Martius

**First appearance:** 0001-self-reliance

## Who they are

Ancient Greek tragedian, referenced for his dramatic works.

## In the story

### [Friendship](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/emerson_essays_se/chapters/friendship)

Alluded to in the context of 'heroic hands' and the fellowship of 'finished men,' representing the heroic character that true friendship aspires to grasp.

### [Heroism](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/emerson_essays_se/chapters/heroism)

Portrayed as the heroic Duke of Athens in a quoted play excerpt; demonstrates disdain for fortune and death, defining dying as 'to begin to live'.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/emerson_essays_se/characters/sophocles
- Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/emerson_essays_se
- All characters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/emerson_essays_se/characters