Damon and Pythias
Damon, and Pythias, ( or, more correctly, Phintias), citizens of Syracuse, Sicily, in the fourth century B.C. who were noted for their mutual devotion. Pythias displeased the tyrant Dionysius the Elder and was condemned to die. He was allowed to go home to put his affairs in order because his friend, Damon, took his place in prison. Pythias was delayed in returning. In spite of the jeers of the people Damon, confident of his friend's loyalty, defended his absence.
Pythias arrived just as Damon was being led out to die in his place. He demanded his friend's release and offered himself for execution. Each begged to die for the other. The tyrant was so impressed by their loyalty that he set them both free.
The story of Damon and Pythias has inspired a number of literary and dramatic works, including “Die Burgschaft,” a ballad by Schiller, and Damon and Pythias (1571), a play by Richard Edwards. A fraternal organization, the Knights of Pythias, was inspired by the story.