Character guide

Ajax

major

Also known as Ajax Both, Ajax Ho Teucer, Ajax Wretch, Ajax Ay, Ajax Quick, Stalwart Ajax, great Ajax, Exit Ajax

The mighty Greek warrior, central figure of the tragedy, driven mad by Athena.

Teucer

major

Also known as Teucer Beloved Ajax, Teucer Murdered, Teucer Lo, Messenger Teucer

Ajax's half-brother and loyal defender, who fights for his brother's honor after his death.

Odysseus

supporting

Also known as lord Odysseus, Odysseus Forbear, Odysseus Voice of Athena, Teucer Noblest Odysseus

The cunning Greek hero who shows compassion for Ajax after his death.

Tecmessa

supporting

Also known as Tecmessa Fear

Ajax's captive wife and the mother of his son, who pleads for his life.

Athena

supporting

Also known as Athena Resentment touching dead Achilles

The goddess who drives Ajax mad and orchestrates his downfall.

Agamemnon

supporting

Also known as approach Great Agamemnon

The Greek commander who refuses to allow Ajax's burial.

Menelaus

supporting

Also known as Menelaus Heaven, Chorus Menelaus

The Greek king who argues against honoring Ajax after his death.

Eurysaces

minor

The young son of Ajax and Tecmessa, who is protected by Teucer.

Hector

minor

The slain Trojan prince whose armor Ajax won, leading to the dispute.

Calchas

minor

The Greek seer who prophesies Ajax's fate.

Achilles

minor

The dead Greek hero whose armor Ajax and Odysseus contested.

Telamon

minor

Also known as Chorus Son of Telamon

Ajax's father, a legendary Greek hero, mentioned as Teucer's father.

Zeus

minor

Also known as Zeus assail

The king of the gods, invoked by characters in prayer and oaths.

Messenger

minor

Also known as Messenger Folly

A herald who brings news of Calchas's prophecy about Ajax.