The story of Ajax
Μαθητής: Αστέρης (Τάξη ΣΤ1)
Εκπαιδευτικός: Ευμορφίλη
Ajax, son of Telamon and Periboea, was a legendary hero in Greek mythology, renowned for his immense strength and valor during the Trojan War. Often referred to as «Telamonian Ajax» or «Greater Ajax» to distinguish him from Ajax the Lesser, he was considered second only to Achilles among the Greek warriors.
Born in Salamis, Ajax was a towering figure, physically imposing and fiercely loyal. He was a formidable warrior, skilled in hand-to-hand combat and wielding a massive shield that protected him from almost any attack. In Homer’s Iliad, Ajax is portrayed as a bulwark of the Achaean army, repeatedly defending the Greek ships and challenging the Trojan heroes. He famously engaged in a prolonged duel with Hector, which ended in a draw, with both warriors exchanging gifts as a sign of respect.
After Achilles” death, a fierce competition arose for his divine armor, forged by Hephaestus. Ajax, believing himself to be the rightful heir due to his strength and contributions to the war, was deeply angered when the armor was awarded to Odysseus. Consumed by grief and rage, Ajax plotted to kill the Achaean leaders. However, Athena intervened, clouding his mind and causing him to slaughter sheep, believing them to be his enemies.
Upon regaining his sanity and realizing the shame he had brought upon himself, Ajax fell upon his own sword, ending his life.
