Diocles

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In Greek mythology, Diocles, or Díoklês, was one of the first priests of Demeter and one of the first to learn the secrets of the Eleusinian Mysteries. He is said to have died in battle while defending his boyfriend (cfr. sacred band).

Theocritus describes him as a "lover of young boys" and relates that at his tomb in Megara a kissing contest is held each year in early spring: adolescent youths gather and compete by kissing a male judge. The one with the best kiss returns home "laden with garlands of flowers." (Idyll 12).

[edit] Homonyms

• Roman emperor Diocletian, formerly named Diocles
• Diocles of Carystus, Greek physician who lived 4th century BC
• Diocles (mathematician), second century BC and the beginning of the first century BC.