Greek Mythology Notes

Telamon

hero
Τελαμών
war

King of Salamis, Argonaut, companion of Heracles, and father of Ajax the Great and Teucer.

The Myth

He was the first man through the walls when Heracles sacked Troy — a feat his son Ajax would try to repeat a generation later. Telamon fought beside Heracles against the Amazons, against Laomedon, and on the Argo. When Troy fell the first time, Telamon was first over the wall, which briefly angered Heracles (who wanted that honor). Heracles nearly killed him but Telamon quickly built an altar to Heracles on the spot, defusing the rage. He received Hesione as his prize. His son Ajax became the greatest Greek warrior after Achilles, and Teucer (by Hesione) the finest archer. Both fought at Troy — the sons completing the cycle their father began.

Parents

Aeacus, Endeis

Symbols

shieldship prow

Fun Fact

Telamon was first over the wall at Troy's first fall — his son Ajax tried to be first at its second.

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