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ἀργαλέων τʼ ἐν ὅπλοις ξυνόδων. Κλεοφῶν δὲ μαχέσθω
The genitive plural 'ἀργαλέων' (difficult/hard) modifies 'ξυνόδων' (meetings/encounters) in the phrase 'ἐν ὅπλοις' (in arms). While 'ἀργαλέος' is a common adjective, its specific collocation with 'ξυνόδων' to denote the arduous nature of military assemblies or the hardships of war is a distinctive Aristophanic usage that contrasts with the more abstract or political 'συνόδους' found in oratory. The phrase sets up a hyperbolic contrast for the immediate command to Kleophon, who is being urged to fight despite the inherent difficulty ('ἀργαλέων') of such military engagements.
Kleophon (Κλεοφῶν) is a specific historical figure, a prominent democratic orator and general in Athens during the later stages of the Peloponnesian War, known for his aggressive stance against Sparta and his opposition to peace negotiations. In the context of the *Frogs* (405 BCE), Aristophanes is satirizing Kleophon's political rhetoric and his push for continued war, ironically suggesting that he should personally engage in the very 'difficult meetings in arms' that he has been advocating for, while the city suffers. This reference relies on the audience's knowledge of the specific political climate of 405 BCE and Kleophon's reputation as a warmonger.
Frogs. Aristophanes. . 2026-09-08.