Orestes

Orestes in Agora is a fictionalized version of the historical Orestes, the Roman prefect of Egypt, portrayed by Oscar Isaac in the 2009 film. In the movie, he is a pagan student of the philosopher Hypatia who later converts to Christianity and becomes her political ally, leading to a bitter feud with Bishop Cyril that ultimately contributes to her death. Historically, Orestes was a real figure who had a tense relationship with Cyril, and Hypatia's influence over him was a point of contention, though the film takes significant artistic license with their personal relationship.  In the film Agora Role: A student of Hypatia who falls in love with her and becomes her close friend and political ally.  Character arc: He begins as a pagan, converts to Christianity, and becomes the Prefect of Alexandria, putting him in direct conflict with Bishop Cyril.  Portrayal: Played by Oscar Isaac.