Chariton of Aphrodisias was an ancient Greek author known for writing a novel likely titled Callirhoe. The work is frequently referred to in historical contexts as Chaereas and Callirhoe. Fragments of the text discovered on papyri suggest that the novel was composed during the mid-1st century AD.
Callirhoe is recognized as the oldest surviving complete ancient prose romance. It is distinguished by its use of historiographical features to provide structure and verisimilitude, alongside elements of Greek mythology. Because the fiction takes place in the past and involves interactions with historical figures, it is often understood as the first historical novel.
The narrative features characters who are frequently compared to mythological figures, such as Aphrodite and Ariadne, as well as various heroes. The work served as a significant literary influence, later imitated by other writers including Xenophon of Ephesus and Heliodorus of Emesa.