If You'll Be My Bodyguard: Simonides the Mercenary in Xenophon's Hieron

Abstract

All of Xenophon's works contemplate the nature of leadership, but the Hieron is unique in how rigorously it engages with the problem of the leader's self interest. Hieron dwells on his personal finances and mistrust in the loyalty of others, which spoil his security and happiness. These problems are exemplified and exacerbated by his reliance on a mercenary bodyguard. Xenophon's choice of Simonides as Hieron's interlocutor can be explained through Simonides' reputation for selfinterest, parallel to that of the bodyguard and of Hieron himself. Simonides' traditional characterization as one who combined avarice with wisdom renders him a sympathetic and useful advisor.