Greek Ideology > Agamemnon

Agamemnon

Background

Agamemnon is a prominent figure in Greek mythology and literature, particularly known for his role in the Trojan War. Here are some key aspects of Agamemnon:

Lineage and Background

1. Son of Atreus: Agamemnon was the son of King Atreus of Mycenae and Queen Aerope, making him a member of the royal house of Atreides.

2. Brother of Menelaus: Agamemnon had a younger brother named Menelaus, who later became the king of Sparta and husband of Helen, whose abduction by Paris of Troy sparked the Trojan War.

Leadership in the Trojan War

1. Commander-in-Chief: Agamemnon was chosen as the commander-in-chief of the Greek forces in the Trojan War, leading a coalition of Greek states against the city of Troy.

2. Sacrifice of Iphigenia: In some versions of the myth, Agamemnon sacrificed his daughter Iphigenia to Artemis in order to gain favorable winds for the Greek fleet to sail to Troy. This act is a source of conflict and tragedy within the story.

3. Feud with Achilles: Agamemnon's conflict with the Greek hero Achilles is a central element of the Iliad. Their quarrel over a captive woman, Briseis, leads to Achilles' withdrawal from the battlefield, resulting in setbacks for the Greek army.

4. Return and Death: After the fall of Troy, Agamemnon returned to Mycenae, where he was killed by his wife Clytemnestra and her lover Aegisthus in a plot of revenge for the sacrifice of Iphigenia and other grievances.

Character Traits

1. Ambition and Hubris: Agamemnon is often portrayed as ambitious and power-hungry, willing to sacrifice his own daughter and offend the gods in pursuit of victory in the Trojan War.

2. Tragic Hero: Agamemnon's story is often seen as a tragic tale of pride and downfall, reflecting the consequences of human folly and divine retribution.

Cultural Influence

1. Literary Works: Agamemnon appears as a character in various ancient Greek texts, including Homer's Iliad and Odyssey, as well as in the plays of Aeschylus, particularly the Oresteia trilogy, which focuses on the aftermath of his death.

2. Symbol of Leadership: Agamemnon is sometimes seen as a symbol of leadership and authority, embodying the challenges and responsibilities of rulership.

Summary

Agamemnon, the son of Atreus and king of Mycenae, is a complex and multifaceted figure in Greek mythology. His leadership in the Trojan War, tragic family history, and eventual downfall at the hands of his wife Clytemnestra make him a compelling character whose story continues to resonate in literature, drama, and popular culture.

Sources

Greek Ideology