Many brave men lived before Agamemnon. ~ Latin Proverb [17742]

Helen, known as the "face that launched a thousand ships," was considered one of the great beauties of all time. She was pursued by kings and princes from around the world. Agamemnon's brother, Menelaus, was to marry her before Paris arrived on the scene.

When Paris captured Helen from Sparta and brought her back to Troy, it was Agamemnon that led the united Greek armies to rescue her. His bravery before and during the Trojan War, along with his rivalry with Achilles, elevated him to legendary status. His tales are recorded in the epic poem, The Odyssey, by Homer. Even though he was heralded as one of the most courageous men in his time, the Grecian cities boasted many heroes before him.

While it is not one of the most popular proverbs in modern times, it has survived the years thus far, making it one of the oldest proverbs in use today.

Jacques-Louis David [Public domain],
via Wikimedia Commons

Golden Mask from Agamemnon's grave.
By Rosemania
(http://www.flickr.com/photos/rosemania/5705122218/)
[see page for license],
via Wikimedia Commons