Definition

Proper noun 1. A figure in Greek mythology: Agamemnon was the king of Mycenae and the leader of the Greek (Achaean) forces during the Trojan War. He is a central character in Homer's Iliad and other classical works.

Examples of Usage

• In Homer's epic poem, Agamemnon quarrels with Achilles over a captive woman.
• The story of Agamemnon's return from Troy and his subsequent murder is a major theme in Greek tragedy.
• Many ancient plays, such as Aeschylus's , feature Agamemnon as a key character.

Advanced Usage

• "Agamemnon" as an archetype: The name is often used to represent a powerful but flawed military or political leader, particularly one whose pride or poor decisions lead to conflict and tragedy.
  • The general's Agamemnon-like arrogance cost him the loyalty of his best officers.

Variants and Related Words

• Atreides: A patronymic meaning "son of Atreus," often used to refer to Agamemnon and his brother, Menelaus.
• Oresteia: The trilogy of plays by Aeschylus that tells the story of the curse on the house of Atreus, beginning with Agamemnon's return and murder.

Synonyms

• Commander-in-chief (in the specific context of the Trojan War)
• Monarch, King (general terms for his royal status)

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "An Agamemnon's choice": Refers to a tragic or impossible decision, alluding to his sacrifice of his daughter Iphigenia to gain favorable winds for the voyage to Troy.
  • Faced with closing the factory or laying off half the staff, the CEO felt it was an Agamemnon's choice.

Noun

1. (Greek mythology) the king who lead the Greeks against Troy in the Trojan War