Leodamia

Leodamia, also known as Leodama or Laodamia, is a figure from Greek mythology. She is most famously associated with Protesilaus, the first Greek warrior to die at the start of the Trojan War.

According to the myth, Leodamia was the daughter of King Amyclas of Sparta or of Acastus. She married Protesilaus, and their union was cut short by his fate at Troy. When Protesilaus sailed to the war, an oracle had foretold that the first Greek to set foot on Trojan soil would perish. Despite this prophecy, Protesilaus willingly stepped ashore, fulfilling the prophecy and dying tragically.

Upon hearing of her husband's death, Leodamia was consumed by grief. In some versions of the myth, she pleaded with the gods to allow Protesilaus to return to the underworld for a short time to say goodbye to her. Her pleas were heard, and Hades granted her wish. Protesilaus descended back to the land of the living for a few hours, allowing them a brief reunion.

After Protesilaus had to return to the underworld, Leodamia, unable to bear the separation, took her own life. She is often depicted as a symbol of wifely devotion and enduring love, willing to join her husband even in death. Her story emphasizes the tragic consequences of the Trojan War and the profound bonds of love in ancient Greek tales.