<P> In Greek historic writings, Damon and Pythias (or Phintias; Greek: Δάμων (gen.: Δάμωνος), Πυθίας, Φιντίας) is a legend surrounding the Pythagorean ideal of friendship . Pythias is accused and charged of creating a plot against the tyrannical Dionysius I of Syracuse . Pythias makes a request of Dionysius that he be allowed to settle his affairs on the condition that he leaves his friend, Damon, as a hostage, so if Pythias does not return, Damon would be executed . Eventually, Pythias returns to face execution to the amazement of Dionysius, who because of the sincere trust and love of their friendship, then lets both Damon and Pythias go free . </P> <P> As told by Aristoxenus, and after him Cicero (De Offic . 3.45), Diodorus Siculus (10.4), and others, Pythias and his friend Damon, both followers of the philosopher Pythagoras, traveled to Syracuse during the reign of the tyrannical Dionysius I (r . 405--367 BC). Pythias was accused of plotting against the tyrant and was sentenced to death . </P>

In damon and pythias why does damon offer to take pythias's place in prison