Thymoetes facts for kids

Thymoetes (/θɪˈmiːtiz/; Ancient Greek: Θυμοίτης Thumoítēs) is a name found in Greek mythology. There were at least three different people known by this name. Each played a part in the ancient stories of heroes and kings.

Who Was Thymoetes?

In the world of Greek myths, the name Thymoetes belonged to several important figures. These included a wise elder from the city of Troy, a king who ruled Athens, and a brave companion of the hero Aeneas. Let's learn more about each of them.

Thymoetes of Troy: The Trojan Horse Story

One of the most well-known Thymoetes was an elder from the city of Troy. He was also a prince, being the son of King Laomedon. His story is connected to the famous Trojan Horse.

A Difficult Prophecy

A soothsayer (someone who predicts the future) once made a scary prediction. They said that on a certain day, a boy would be born who would cause Troy to be destroyed. On that very day, two boys were born: Paris to King Priam of Troy, and Munippus to Thymoetes.

King Priam was very worried about the prophecy. To try and stop it from coming true, he ordered that Munippus and his mother, Cilla, be killed. Priam spared his own son, Paris.

The Trojan Horse Plan

Many believe that Thymoetes was very sad and angry about the death of his son and wife. Because of this, he wanted to get revenge on King Priam. When the Greeks left behind the giant Trojan Horse outside Troy's walls, Thymoetes was one of the people who suggested bringing the wooden horse inside the city. This decision, as the myths tell us, led to the fall of Troy.

Thymoetes: King of Athens

Another important Thymoetes was an Athenian hero. He was the son of Oxyntes, who was a king of Attica. This Thymoetes was the very last Athenian king who was a descendant of the famous hero Theseus. He was later replaced by Melanthus. Some stories, like those told by Pausanias, say that Melanthus actually overthrew Thymoetes to become king.

Another Thymoetes: Aeneas's Friend

There was also a third Thymoetes. He was a Trojan warrior and a companion of the hero Aeneas. This Thymoetes was sadly killed in battle by Turnus.