Panteus was the "younger lover" (aitas = listener, hearer) of the king Cleomenes III.

The connection originated from the proposal of Cleomenes, and Panteus accepted him with real affection. Their connection was very intimate and faithful; and was recognized by the State, as it was custom.

In fact it was the practice for every youth of good character to have his lover; and on the other hand every well-educated man was bound by custom to be the lover of some youth.