According to the ancient Greek historian, Herodotus, there was once a wealthy tyrant of Sicyon named Cleisthenes. This man wished to marry his only child, a daughter, Agariste, to the “best man in all of Greece”. Among the many suitors was Hippoclides, son of Teisander, an Athenian nobleman, the wealthiest and best-looking man in all of Athens.

When all the young men had been considered after a year of questioning and competitions only Hippoclides and Megacles remained. The time came for Cleisthenes to make his decision. He gave a great banquet, in which all the suitors and all of Sicyon were invited. When the dinner was over the two remaining suitors began to compete with one another in music and talking to company. In both these accomplishments Hippoclides was the clear winner. For his parentage, conversation, manly qualities, temper, education, and manners Hippoclides was the favorite. The tyrant of Sicyon was so pleased he stood ready to proclaim Hippoclides the winner.

Wine after wine after wine Hippoclides drank, becoming intoxicated and acting like a fool. He finally demanded that a flute player play him a tune and began to dance vigorously. Cleisthenes was shocked, but allowed this to continue. Soon Hippoclides called for a table, which he climbed, and for his crowning achievement, stood on his head, and gesticulated with his legs, keeping time to the flute music.

Cleisthenes was appalled and could bear this no longer.  He informed Hippoclides: “Oh son of Teisander, you have just danced away your marriage.”

To which Hippoclides replied, legs still gesticulating, “Hippoclides doesn’t care!  The phrase, according to Herodotus, became a common expression in the Greek world.