The Story of Penthesilea
Penthesilea was an Amazon queen, a daughter of Ares and the Amazon Otrera. In one telling, she accidentally killed her sister, called Hippolyta in most accounts, while hunting. Seeking purification and a glorious death in battle, she came to Troy with a band of Amazons to help King Priam after Hector had fallen.
Penthesilea fought brilliantly and killed many Greek warriors, giving the Trojans fresh hope. Then she met Achilles, who struck her down. As he removed her helmet, he was moved by her beauty and courage, and when the soldier Thersites mocked his grief, Achilles killed him.
Her story was told in the lost epic the Aethiopis and retold by later poets such as Quintus of Smyrna. The moment of Achilles holding the dying queen became a favorite scene for Greek vase painters. For the Greeks she stood for the tragic courage of the Amazons, warriors equal to the greatest heroes.
Famous Myths About Penthesilea
A Tragic Accident
Penthesilea accidentally killed her sister Hippolyta while hunting. Seeking purification and a glorious death in battle, she came to Troy with her Amazons to help King Priam after Hector had fallen.
Duel with Achilles
Penthesilea fought brilliantly and killed many Greeks before meeting Achilles, who struck her down. As he removed her helmet, he was moved by her beauty and courage, and when the soldier Thersites mocked his grief, Achilles killed him.
Penthesilea's Family Tree
Parents of Penthesilea
Partners of Penthesilea
Children of Penthesilea
Frequently Asked Questions About Penthesilea
Who was Penthesilea in Greek mythology?
Penthesilea was a queen of the Amazons and a daughter of Ares who fought for Troy after the death of Hector.
Why did Penthesilea go to Troy?
Penthesilea had accidentally killed her sister Hippolyta while hunting, and she went to Troy seeking purification and glory in battle.
How did Penthesilea die?
Penthesilea was killed by Achilles. According to legend, he fell in love with her as he removed her helmet and saw her face, and when the soldier Thersites mocked him for it, Achilles killed him.
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