Greek Mythology Notes

Antilochus

hero
Ἀντίλοχος
war

Son of Nestor, youngest Greek commander at Troy, beloved companion of Achilles who died protecting his father.

The Myth

He was so close to Achilles that his death was the second blow that shattered the greatest warrior in the war. Antilochus was the one sent to deliver the news of Patroclus's death to Achilles — and later died himself fighting Memnon to save his aged father Nestor. In the Epic Cycle, Achilles avenged him just as he had avenged Patroclus. The three — Achilles, Patroclus, and Antilochus — were buried together in the same mound at the Hellespont. He was also famous for his chariot skill, nearly beating Menelaus in the funeral games for Patroclus through sheer daring.

Symbols

chariotspear

Fun Fact

Achilles, Patroclus, and Antilochus share a single burial mound — three generations of friendship in one grave.

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