Prokles (Pergamon)

Prokles of Pergamon was a Greek rhetorician and sophist who lived in the 2nd century CE. He is primarily known for his role as a prominent figure in the Second Sophistic movement, a period of revival in classical Greek rhetoric and literature. While little biographical information about Prokles survives, his reputation rests largely on his skill as an orator and teacher.

He is mentioned by Philostratus in his Lives of the Sophists (Βίοι Σοφιστῶν), which serves as a crucial source of information about the key figures of the Second Sophistic. Philostratus praises Prokles for his eloquence, his mastery of rhetorical techniques, and his influence on the development of rhetorical education in Pergamon. He notes Prokles's ability to both instruct students and captivate audiences with his oratory.

Prokles's contributions to the Second Sophistic involved not only his own performances but also his pedagogical work. He trained a generation of orators who went on to achieve prominence in their own right. His teachings likely emphasized the importance of mastering classical models, developing a strong personal style, and adapting rhetorical strategies to suit different audiences and occasions.

The importance of Prokles of Pergamon lies in his representation of the ideals and practices of the Second Sophistic. He exemplifies the renewed interest in classical rhetoric, the emphasis on eloquent public speaking, and the role of the sophist as a cultural leader and educator. While his specific writings or speeches are not extant, his legacy endures through the accounts of Philostratus and his place within the broader intellectual and cultural context of his time.