Telamon

Telamon, a towering figure known for his immense strength, ruled over the island kingdom of Salamis. He was the proud father of Ajax, a legendary warrior who would leave his mark on the Trojan War.

Telamon on the Wayne County, Ohio courthouse.

Parents: Aeacus and Endeis
Siblings: Peleus
Consort: Periboea and Hesione
Children: Ajax and Teucer

Adventures

Telamon’s story was one of unwavering loyalty, fierce battles, and a touch of tragedy. Alongside his brother Peleus, he forged a deep bond with the mighty Heracles, joining him on daring expeditions against fearsome Amazons, a treacherous king, and even the legendary quest for the Golden Fleece alongside Jason and the Argonauts. These adventures solidified Telamon’s reputation as a courageous and skilled warrior.

However, Telamon’s life wasn’t without its dark chapters. A violent act, the slaying of their half-brother Phocus, forced Telamon and Peleus to flee their homeland of Aegina, forever marked as fugitives. Seeking refuge, Telamon found himself on the island of Salamis, where King Cychreus took him in and offered him a chance to rebuild his life.

Telemon on left of entrance to Palazzo Davia Bargellini, Bologna. (c) Mike Peel

Telamon’s gratitude blossomed into a deep friendship with the king, further cemented by his marriage to Cychreus’ daughter, Periboea. Their union produced a son, Ajax, who would grow into a formidable warrior in his own right. Later, when Heracles waged war against Troy, Telamon found himself once again on the battlefield. Victory brought him Hesione, a princess he claimed as a prize. Their marriage produced another son, Teucer.

Despite these moments of triumph, Telamon’s life wouldn’t be without its share of heartbreak. The suicide of his son Ajax at Troy left a gaping hole in his heart. Grief and a sense of betrayal, perhaps fueled by Teucer’s perceived failure to protect his brother, led Telamon to banish his remaining son from Salamis. Thus, the hero whose life was filled with camaraderie and conquest ended in a poignant solitude, forever marked by the complexities of family and the scars of war.