Atreus of Mycenae

AncientEmperorMycenae-1250 — -1220

Sun-chariot king, father of Agamemnon and Menelaus.

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Quick Facts

Born

1250 BCE

Died

1220 BCE

Country

Mycenae

Era

Ancient

Occupation

Emperor

Score Overview

Military (10%)26

Political (20%)28

Influence (20%)53

Legacy (20%)45

Leadership (15%)31

Strategy (15%)40

Total Score40.0

Atreus of Mycenae — Complete Timeline

1250 BC

Became King of MycenaePolitical Action◆ Major

Atreus succeeded Eurystheus as king of Mycenae, establishing the Atreid dynasty. His reign marked the beginning of Mycenae's greatest period of power and influence in the Greek world.

SuccessionDynasty

Impact: regionalconstructive

1240 BC

Feud with Thyestes over the Golden FleecePolitical Action◆ Major

Atreus and his brother Thyestes quarreled over the throne of Mycenae, with Thyestes seducing Atreus's wife and stealing the golden fleece that symbolized kingship. This feud led to a cycle of revenge.

FeudBetrayalGolden Fleece

Impact: regionaldestructive

1230 BC

Served Thyestes' Children as FoodPolitical Action

Atreus, in revenge, killed Thyestes' sons and served them to their father at a banquet. This act of cannibalism cursed the House of Atreus and led to further tragedies.

RevengeCannibalismCurse

Impact: regionaldestructive

1220 BC

Death by AegisthusPolitical Action◆ Major

Atreus was killed by Aegisthus, the surviving son of Thyestes, who had been raised in exile. Aegisthus then restored Thyestes to the throne, continuing the cycle of violence.

AssassinationRevenge

Impact: regionaltragic