Polymestor

Bauer - Polydorus Polymnestor

Polymestor was a king in Greek mythology, often associated with the mythological tales surrounding the Trojan War. He is most famously known for his role in the events that unfolded after the fall of Troy, particularly in relation to the tragic fate of Polydorus, the youngest son of Priam and Hecuba, the king and queen of Troy.

Mythological Background

Polymestor was the king of Thrace, a region that was often depicted as being near or allied with Troy in ancient Greek mythology. He is sometimes described as having familial connections to the royal family of Troy, which were common in these myths to create intricate relationships between characters and cities.

During the Trojan War, fearing for his youngest son Polydorus's safety, Priam sent him to Thrace along with a significant amount of gold, entrusting him to Polymestor's care. Priam's hope was that if Troy were to fall, at least one of his offspring would survive, away from the dangers of war.

The Betrayal

After the fall of Troy, Polymestor, either out of greed for the gold that was sent with Polydorus or due to political pressures and alliances shifting towards the Greek victors, murdered Polydorus. In some versions of the myth, Polymestor threw Polydorus into the sea, while in others, he was murdered in a more direct manner.

Revenge of Hecuba

The story of Polymestor's betrayal and the murder of Polydorus is most famously recounted in Euripides' play, Hecuba. In this tragedy, Hecuba, who has been captured and enslaved after the fall of Troy, discovers the murder of her son when his body washes ashore. She devises a plan to avenge her son's death.

Hecuba invites Polymestor into the Greek camp under the pretense of revealing hidden treasure to him. Once he arrives, she, along with other Trojan women, blinds him and murders his two sons. This act of vengeance is a pivotal moment in the play, highlighting themes of justice, revenge, and the tragic consequences of war.

Interpretations and Themes

The story of Polymestor and Polydorus delves into themes of betrayal, the fragility of trust, and the lengths to which individuals will go for revenge. It also reflects on the impact of war on personal morality and the breakdown of societal norms and relationships.

Polymestor's actions and subsequent punishment raise questions about justice and retribution, especially in the context of war and its aftermath. The character of Hecuba, transformed by grief and the desire for revenge, becomes a symbol of the devastating effects of war on individuals, particularly women.

Legacy

The myth of Polymestor and Polydorus has been a subject of literary and artistic interest through the ages, inspiring plays, artworks, and literature. It serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of war and the complex interplay of emotions and ethics in the pursuit of justice and revenge.