Histories · Character
Demokedes
A Greek doctor from Croton whose skill pulls him up the Persian court, from Polycrates's service to Darius's bedside.
supporting
Also known as Demokedes of Croton
First appearance: Book III: Thaleia
As a supporting figure in Histories, Demokedes is not background color—the story leans on what they do once the chapter opens.
Greek physician who heals Darius's foot and later escapes Persian custody in Croton.
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Demokedes begins as a physician in demand, moving from his native Croton to Aegina, Athens, and Samos, until Polycrates hands him over to the Persians and he finds himself tending Darius himself. His medical talent wins…
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See Demokedes in Book III: ThaleiaCharacter Web
6 connectionsA slice of how Demokedes sits in the book — open the reader for the full interactive map.
Relationship types
- Other
Character groups
- Diverse figures from the Histories
- Kings and commanders of the Greco-Persian Wars
- Protagonist
- Samian tyrants and their fates
+1 more in the full Character Web
Open in readerNarrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Closing
This passage marks the dramatic climax because it presents the emotional and psychological peak of the Hellene…
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Demokedes appears across 1 companion beat. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.
Chapter companion notes
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See Demokedes in Book III: Thaleia