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What is known about Aristophanesâ family and citizenship?
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Aristophanes
Aristophanes, portrait bust, c. 4thâ1st century bce; in the collection of the Uffizi Gallery, Florence, Italy.
Little is known about the life of the Greek dramatist Aristophanes, with most available information derived from references within his own plays.1
Regarding his citizenship and family, the following details are established:
- Citizenship: Aristophanes was an Athenian citizen and a member of the Pandionis clan.1
- Birthplace: His actual birthplace remains uncertain.1
- Family and Property: His fatherâs name was Philippus. The fact that either Aristophanes or his father owned property on the island of Aegina led to accusations from his fellow citizens that he was not of Athenian birth.1