Story Summary
Explore the tragic tale of Protesilaus First to Fall at Troy. Learn how his heroic sacrifice and Laodamia’s devotion shaped the start of the epic Trojan War.
When the Greek fleet arrived at the shores of Troy, a grim prophecy hung over the water: the first man to touch Trojan soil would be the first to die. For a long time, the heroes hesitated, their ships bobbing in the surf as they weighed glory against certain death. Protesilaus, the King of Phylace, looked upon his comrades and realized that if no one led, the war would be lost before it began. With a shout, he leaped from his vessel, his feet striking the sand ahead of all others. He fought with the fury of a man who knew his time was short, slaying many Trojans before he was finally brought down by the spear of Hector. His death fulfilled the oracle but secured the landing for the Achaean army. Back home, his wife Laodamia was so consumed by grief that she prayed to the gods to see him one last time. Moved by her devotion, Hermes led Protesilaus from the underworld for three brief hours. When the time expired and he returned to the shadows, Laodamia, unable to endure a second parting, took her own life to join him in the halls of Hades.
The Moral
True heroism is found in the willingness to sacrifice oneself for the collective good, and the deepest bonds of love can defy even the boundaries of death.
“He chose the glory of the first step over the safety of the last.”
Fun Fact
According to legend, nymphs planted elm trees around Protesilaus's tomb that would grow tall until they saw Troy, at which point their leaves would wither and die.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Protesilaus First to Fall at Troy?
The story emphasizes that leadership often requires ultimate self-sacrifice for the success of the group. It also serves as a testament to the power of love, showing that it can be more significant than life itself.
Why was Protesilaus the first to die in the Trojan War?
An oracle predicted that the first Greek to land on Trojan soil would perish immediately. Protesilaus deliberately chose to jump first to break the stalemate and inspire the other Greeks to invade.
Who killed Protesilaus on the beach of Troy?
According to most classical accounts, it was the Trojan prince Hector who dealt the fatal blow. Some alternative versions suggest it may have been Aeneas or Cycnus, but Hector remains the most prominent figure associated with his death.
What happened to Laodamia after Protesilaus died?
Laodamia was so overcome with grief that she begged the gods for a few hours with her husband's spirit. When he had to return to the underworld, she could not bear the loss and ended her life to stay with him.
How did the gods intervene in the story of Protesilaus?
The gods showed rare pity for the grieving Laodamia by allowing Hermes to escort Protesilaus back to the living world for three hours. This briefly bridged the gap between the mortal realm and the house of Hades.
What does the name Protesilaus mean?
The name is derived from Greek words meaning 'first of the people' or 'leaping first.' It is a fitting title for a hero whose defining act was his courageous first leap onto enemy territory.