This paper centers on Gorgias’ relationship with his stepfather Knemon. It collates the verses and passages which, read in a new light, show in a subtle and suggestive way the young man’s complaints against Knemon, who has neglected him and has not helped him to escape poverty. Gorgias’ fate is also intertwined with that of the Daughter. As a young man, he is also expectedby the conventions of New Comedy to get married and produce heirs. Knemon is an obstacle to this outcome, as he is a block-character for his daughter’s marriage. However, through his altruism Gorgias manages to gain his stepfather’s appreciation and gratitude; through his friendship with Sostratos he also finds a bride. On the whole, this paper aspires to prove that Gorgias is not a stock type, but a dramatic character with emotions and weaknesses, which bring him closer to the audience’s experience.
