ASCRA (city in Boeotia)
Ancient city-state of Boeotia
Ascra was the birthplace of the poet Hesiod, who described it as a wretched hamlet that was bad in winter and intolerable in summer. Of the Origin of Homer and Hesiod, and of Their Contest It stands on a high and rocky elevation. Strabo 9.2.25 Ascra is located near the mountain Helicon, specifically at its foot on the right side, and near the harbour called Mychus. Hesiod's Works and Days ll. 618-640
Described in the sources
Ascra is described as rich in corn and possessing many cornfields. Of the Origin of Homer and Hesiod, and of Their Contest (76) +1 The place is noted as being unpleasant in every season. Strabo 13.3.6 Zenodotus described Ascra as a location rich in vineyards. Strabo 9.2.35 The location is described as oppressive during the summer months. Strabo 13.3.6 The village is characterized as wretched during the winter season. Strabo 13.3.6 Only a single tower remained of the city during Pausanias's lifetime. Pausanias 9.29.2 Ascra is situated within the territory of Thespiae, approximately forty stadia away from the city, and just above the Crisaean Gulf. Strabo 9.2.25
Stories and history
Hesiod stated that Ascra is miserable in winter, sultry in summer, and good at no season of the year. Hesiod's Works and Days ll. 618-640 +1 Hesiod claimed his father settled in Ascra. Of the Origin of Homer and Hesiod, and of Their Contest The city is described as being rich in springs. Pausanias 9.29.1 The settlement is described as a miserable hamlet. Hesiod's Works and Days ll. 618-640 Ephialtes and Otus are said to have founded the city. Pausanias 9.29.1 Eudoxus provided a description of Ascra that was highly disparaging. Strabo 9.2.35 Oeoclus and the children of Aloeus are said to have founded the city. Pausanias 9.29.1