Apollonius of Rhodes is
one of the most prominent poets of the Hellenistic period. Born in the 3rd
century BC in Alexandria, Egypt, he tutored king Ptolemy III and was head of
the Great Library. Biographical details are scant, but Apollonius, according to
the ancient biographies, is said to have spent a lengthy time in Rhodes, whence
he received the title 'Rhodius' (man of Rhodes).