The Life of Aris Iodynis

By Nicholas Miller
Ancient World History - HIST-134
2/15/15

My name is Aris Iodynis. I am a 22-year old Athenian aristocrat, living with my family
in our estate. As a male adult of the city-state of Athens, I am eligible to voice my opinion in the
governance of my community due to the fact that we are now a democracy. I am very interested
in mathematics and I spend most of my time at the Athenian Academy. I currently study with a
mentor by the name of Philos Eradenae, who has mentored me for about 3 years now since I
have advanced into the academys higher level studies. Lately, I have been focusing on the
studies by Euclid, who did a lot of work in prime number theory. I hope to one day continue his
work where he left off and discover new mathematical phenomena.
When I am not at the academy, I am usually enjoying the luxuries of Athens, whether I
am socializing with friends, or having peace at my home. At my estate, life is very plain and
simple. I usually spend time reading, with Homers Iliad being one of my favorite novels. My
father owns 3 slaves, which tend our farm. Occasionally, when one of our slaves is on his break
from the field, I may have some small talk or ask for a small favor. Generally, I prefer to be kind
to our slaves since they do a lot of work for us. Also, it is in my familys best interests to treat
the slaves well, or they will not be productive on the field. I think it is one of the things that
makes our household so different from many other slave-owning aristocratic families.
As of now, I do not have many obligations or responsibilities. My mother takes care of
keeping the estate looking nice and tends our courtyard garden. She also knits our bedding and
clothing. Within the estate, I do not have any duties, except to keep good relations with our farm
slaves. Outside of the estate, I have duties to both my academy and to the city-state of Athens.
To my academy, I must always prepare myself for the next session with my mentor. Philos
usually assigns me a topic to study in detail at home, and I must be ready to discuss it with him
over the next couple of days. To my city-state, much of my responsibilities come from my

desire to participate in Athens. However, I am still mandated on occasion to take part in a court
jury. Usually though, my participation involves activity with the Assembly at Acropolis. I enjoy
keeping up to date with the political discussions, and it important that my opinion can be heard if
necessary. After all, I want to be able to maintain my high quality of life.
Soon, I will be finished at the academy under the mentorship from Philos. I will need to
take a proficiency exam, and if I pass, I will be considered an Athenian Scholar, one of the most
prestigious academic achievements in all of Greece. When I finish, I intend to apply my in depth
knowledge in mathematics by becoming a mentor. I will help students progress in their
academic career as well as research new mathematical phenomena.