Agamemnon, King of Mycenae

“Agamemnon: The Mighty King Who Led the Greeks to War!”

• Alias: None
• Gender: Male
• Race: Human
• Occupation: King of Mycenae, Leader of the Greek forces in the Trojan War
• Religion: Hellenic Pantheon
• Allies: Menelaus, Achilles, Odysseus, Nestor, Greek city-states
• Enemies: Troy, Priam, Hector, Paris, Aeneas, Aegisthus
• Abode/Base of operations: Mycenae, Greece
• Nationality: Greek
• Languages: Greek
• Alignment: Lawful Neutral
• Affiliation(s): Greek city-states, Achaean forces
• Significant others: Clytemnestra (wife), Cassandra (concubine), Iphigenia (daughter), Orestes (son), Electra (daughter), Chrysothemis (daughter), Hermione (daughter)

Agamemnon, the legendary King of Mycenae, is a powerful and ambitious leader whose actions shape the course of ancient Greek history. As a character, he is known for his strategic prowess, charismatic presence, and unyielding determination. Agamemnon’s motivations stem from his desire to achieve victory and glory, establishing his dominance and solidifying his place as a respected ruler.

With a lineage steeped in myth and divine heritage, Agamemnon feels a profound responsibility to uphold his family’s legacy and fulfill his destiny as a leader. He sees himself as the rightful ruler of all Greeks, driven by a sense of duty to protect his people and preserve their way of life. Agamemnon believes that through war and conquest, he can unite the Greek city-states under his rule, bringing stability and prosperity to the region.

However, Agamemnon’s path to greatness is fraught with challenges and sacrifices. His actions are not without controversy, as he makes difficult decisions that test his morality and strain his relationships. Agamemnon’s personal ambitions sometimes clash with the greater good, causing conflicts with his allies and loved ones.

As he leads the Greeks in the infamous Trojan War, Agamemnon faces both triumphs and setbacks. His leadership skills are put to the test, and he must navigate political rivalries, manage a diverse coalition of warriors, and contend with the capricious nature of the gods. Through it all, Agamemnon remains resolute, using his cunning and charisma to inspire his troops and rally support for his cause.

Deep down, Agamemnon yearns for recognition and immortality. He wants to be remembered as a legendary figure in Greek history, leaving a lasting legacy that transcends his mortal existence. Whether he achieves his goals or succumbs to the challenges that await him, Agamemnon’s story is one of ambition, power, and the complex nature of leadership.

Agamemnon, King of Mycenae

Medium humanoid (human), lawful neutral

Armor Class 18 (bronze armor) Hit Points 180 (20d8 + 100) Speed 30 ft.

STR	DEX	CON	INT	WIS	CHA
18 (+4)	14 (+2)	20 (+5)	16 (+3)	14 (+2)	18 (+4)

Saving Throws Str +8, Con +10 Skills History +9, Intimidation +8, Persuasion +8 Senses passive Perception 12 Languages Common, Ancient Greek Challenge 15 (13,000 XP)

Actions

Shortsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +8 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 9 (1d6 + 4) piercing damage.

Javelin. Melee or Ranged Weapon Attack: +8 to hit, reach 5 ft. or range 30/120 ft., one target. Hit: 9 (1d6 + 4) piercing damage.

Leadership Presence (Recharge 5-6). Agamemnon uses his bonus action to grant advantage on attack rolls and saving throws to any allies within 30 feet. This effect lasts for 1 minute.

Divine Blessing (3/Day). Agamemnon can use his action to call upon the favor of the gods, gaining temporary hit points equal to his level (20) + his Charisma modifier (4).

Reactions

Parry. Agamemnon adds 4 to his AC against one melee attack that would hit him. To do so, he must see the attacker and wield a melee weapon.

Legendary Actions

Agamemnon can take 3 legendary actions, choosing from the options below. Only one legendary action option can be used at a time and only at the end of another creature’s turn. Agamemnon regains spent legendary actions at the start of his turn.

Attack. Agamemnon makes one melee or ranged attack.

Inspiring Command. Agamemnon uses his bonus action to issue an inspiring command to an ally within 30 feet. The ally can use their reaction to immediately make one weapon attack.

Divine Strike (Costs 2 Actions). Agamemnon imbues his weapon with divine energy. The next weapon attack he makes deals an additional 14 (4d6) radiant damage.

Equipment

Bronze armor, shortsword, 3 javelins, royal crown, golden scepter, symbol of kingship.

Lair Actions

On initiative count 20 (losing initiative ties), Agamemnon can take a lair action to cause one of the following effects:

Inspiring Presence. Agamemnon’s commanding presence inspires his allies. Until the start of his next turn, all allies within 60 feet gain advantage on saving throws against fear effects.

Judgment of the Gods. Agamemnon calls upon the gods to pass judgment on his enemies. Each enemy within 30 feet must make a DC 16 Wisdom saving throw or be blinded for 1 minute. They can repeat the saving throw at the end of each of their turns, ending the effect on a success.

Divine Intervention. Agamemnon uses his divine connection to heal himself and his allies. Each creature of his choice within 30 feet regains hit points equal to 2d8 + Agamemnon’s Charisma modifier (4).

Legendary Resistance (3/Day)

If Agamemnon fails a saving throw, he can choose to succeed instead.

3.5 Version of Agamemnon

Trojan War: Roleplaying in the Age of Homeric Adventure

A Mythic Vistas Sourcebook for the d20 System

Written by Aaron Rosenberg

Agamemnon
Male human Fighter 10/Orator 4
Medium humanoid
Hit Dice	10d10+30 plus 4d6+12; hp 115
Initiative	+3
Speed	25 ft.
Armor Class	AC 33, touch 11, fl at-footed 32
Base Attack/Grapple	+12 Grp +15
Attack	+23 melee (1d8+9, Scepter of the Atreides) or +14 ranged (1d8+4, +1 throwing spear)
Full Attack	+23/+18/+13 melee (1d8+9, Scepter of the Atreides) or +16/+11/+6 melee (1d6+4/19-20, +1 short sword) or +14 ranged (1d8+4, +1 throwing spear)
Space/Reach	5 ft./5 ft.
Special Attacks	suggest, taunt; SQ captive audience, charmer, glib
Special Qualities	–
Saves	Fort +11, Ref +5, Will +9
Abilities	Strength 16, Dexterity 12, Constitution 16, Intelligence 14, Wisdom 14, Charisma 20.
Skills	Appraise +6, Bluff +14 (+18 audience, +22 audiences of commoners), Diplomacy +14 (+18 audience, +22 audiences of commoners), Disguise +5 (+7 acting), Gather Information +9, Intimidate +25 (+29 audience, +33 audiences of commoners), Knowledge (tactics) +10, Perform (oratory) +15 (+19 audience, +23 audience of commoners), Sense Motive +8;
Feats	Cleave, Combat Expertise, Distinctive*, Endurance, Greater Weapon Focus (heavy mace), Noble*, Persuasive, Power Attack, Quick Draw, Skill Focus (Perform: oratory), Weapon Focus (heavy mace), Weapon Specialization (heavy mace).
Environment	–
Organization	–
Challenge Rating	14
Treasure	–
Alignment	Lawful Good

Possessions: Agamemnon’s armor, +2 chased round bronze shield, scepter of Atreus, +1 throwing spear, +1 bronze short sword.

Agamemnon’s Armor

This +6 chased burnished layered bronze panoply includes a handsome pair of greaves with silver ankle clips and a four layered plumed helmet. The most stunning piece, however, is the cuirass, which King Cinyras of Crete gave to Agamemnon. The cuirass has two layers of bronze, but atop the outer layer are enameled strips: 10 of dark blue enamel, 12 of gold, and 20 of tin. Six iridescent enameled snakes, which rise up three on each side, encircle the neck of the cuirass. Th is cuirass protects Agamemnon from any poison of any kind. Finally, anyone seeing this cuirass must make a DC 15 Will save or become panicked.

Strong enchantment; CL 20th; Weight 25 lb.

Scepter of Atreus

Hephaestus crafted this studded golden scepter for Zeus, who gave it to Hermes, who then gave it to Pelops. When Pelops left his kingdom in the hands of Atreus and Thyestes, he gave them the scepter as the sign of rulership. Atreus eventually passed it to his son, Agamemnon. Th e scepter functions as a +6 heavy mace and grants the wielder a +4 bonus to his Charisma score.

Strong transmutation; CL 18th; Weight 8 lb.

Plot Hooks

• The Call to Arms: Agamemnon, the renowned leader of the Greek forces, summons the players to join him in the Trojan War, invoking the ancient oath that binds the Greek city-states together. They are entrusted with the task of rallying warriors, negotiating alliances, and strategizing battle plans alongside Agamemnon. As they witness the king’s unwavering determination to avenge the abduction of Helen and restore the honor of Greece, they become integral to the grand narrative of the Trojan War.
• The Burden of Leadership: Agamemnon, burdened by the weight of command, seeks the players’ counsel and support as they navigate the treacherous waters of politics and alliances within the Greek camp. They find themselves embroiled in the internal conflicts of the Greek commanders, witnessing Agamemnon’s struggles to maintain unity and lead an army of diverse city-states. They face challenges such as resolving disputes, managing scarce resources, and appeasing disgruntled allies, all while gaining a deeper understanding of the immense responsibilities Agamemnon bears.
• The Oracle’s Prophecy: Agamemnon, driven by a need for divine guidance, embarks on a perilous journey with the players to consult the Oracle of Delphi. They traverse treacherous terrains, battle mythical creatures, and solve riddles to reach the sacred oracle. As they decipher the cryptic prophecies, they unearth hidden truths about the war and Agamemnon’s fate, ultimately influencing their decisions and actions. They witness Agamemnon’s unwavering faith in the oracles and the pivotal role played by divine intervention in shaping the outcome of the war.
• Avenge the Honor: Agamemnon learns of a grave offense against the honor of Greece, be it the theft of a sacred artifact or the capture of a revered warrior. He calls upon the players to embark on a quest of vengeance, fueling their sense of justice and the desire to restore the pride of their homeland. They navigate treacherous territories, confront formidable enemies, and unravel the mysteries surrounding the dishonor. As they delve deeper into the quest, they witness Agamemnon’s unyielding determination to uphold the honor of Greece at any cost.
• The Trojan Deception: Agamemnon devises a cunning plan to infiltrate the impenetrable walls of Troy. He assigns the players key roles in this audacious scheme, relying on their wit, stealth, and ability to maintain a guise within the Trojan ranks. They engage in espionage, navigate Trojan politics, and gather intelligence to weaken the city’s defenses from within. They witness Agamemnon’s strategic brilliance and calculated risks, experiencing firsthand the complexities of Trojan intrigue and the sacrifices made for victory.
• The Demands of the Gods: Agamemnon receives divine mandates from the gods, demanding specific tasks to secure their favor in the war. The players accompany him on a quest to fulfill these demands, facing supernatural trials, battling mythical creatures, and unraveling the will of the gods. They witness Agamemnon’s unwavering commitment to appease the deities, even as the tasks become increasingly dangerous and morally ambiguous. The players are confronted with the divine realms and the consequences of meddling with the powerful forces beyond mortal comprehension.
• The Price of Power: Agamemnon’s relentless pursuit of victory drives him to make morally questionable decisions. The players, grappling with their own sense of morality, find themselves caught between loyalty to their leader and questioning the righteousness of his actions. They face dilemmas that test their principles, such as deciding the fate of prisoners, dealing with collateral damage, or negotiating questionable alliances. As they witness Agamemnon’s ambition and the personal toll it takes on him, they must navigate the fine line between duty and moral judgment.
• The Forgotten Hero: The players stumble upon a hidden secret from Agamemnon’s past, uncovering a long-buried truth or discovering a forgotten hero who holds the key to turning the tide of the war. Agamemnon, haunted by his past actions, enlists the players’ aid in uncovering the truth and reconciling his past with his present role as a leader. They embark on a quest that involves finding relics, deciphering ancient texts, or seeking out long-lost allies, all while navigating dangerous territory and facing formidable adversaries. They witness Agamemnon’s internal struggle and the weight of his past transgressions, providing an opportunity for redemption and growth.
• The Last Stand: As the Trojan War reaches its climactic battle, Agamemnon calls upon the players to defend the Greek camp against overwhelming odds. They stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the legendary king, fighting alongside him and witnessing his unwavering courage and leadership. The players face legendary foes, engage in epic duels, and experience the intensity of the final confrontation, all while understanding the magnitude of Agamemnon’s sacrifices and the fate of Greece hanging in the balance. They witness the culmination of Agamemnon’s journey and the legacy he leaves behind as a legendary figure in Greek mythology.

Currently in the World

Agamemnon is a towering figure with a commanding presence, exuding an air of authority and regality. He stands tall and proud, his broad shoulders and muscular build a testament to his years of leading warriors into battle. His strong, chiseled face is adorned with a neatly trimmed beard, and his piercing eyes reflect a mix of wisdom and intensity.

Currently, Agamemnon finds himself in the war room of his palace, surrounded by maps and battle plans. He is dressed in gleaming bronze armor, a symbol of his status as a warrior king. The room is filled with the energy of strategy and anticipation, as Agamemnon contemplates the next move in the long and arduous Trojan War.

The war room is adorned with symbols of power and conquest, showcasing the might and glory of Mycenae. Banners and trophies from past victories hang on the walls, reminding Agamemnon of the battles fought and the lives lost. The atmosphere is charged with a sense of purpose and determination, as Agamemnon leads his armies with strategic brilliance.

Agamemnon’s mood is a mix of focus and resolve. He carries the weight of the war on his shoulders, aware of the sacrifices and challenges that lie ahead. There is a sense of weariness in his eyes, but it is overshadowed by a burning desire to avenge the honor of Greece and secure victory in the face of great adversity.

In Myth

Early life

Agamemnon’s father Atreus was murdered by Aegisthus, who took possession of the throne of Mycenae and ruled jointly with his father Thyestes. During this period Agamemnon and his brother, Menelaus, took refuge with Tyndareus, king of Sparta. There they respectively married Tyndareus’ daughters Clytemnestra and Helen. Agamemnon and Clytemnestra had five children: four daughters, Iphigeneia, Electra, Chrysothemis, and Iphianissa and one son, Orestes.

Menelaus succeeded Tyndareus in Sparta, while Agamemnon, with his brother’s assistance, drove out Aegisthus and Thyestes to recover his father’s kingdom. He extended his dominion by conquest and became the most powerful prince in Greece.

However, Agamemnon’s family history, dating back to legendary king Pelops, had been marred by pederastic rape, murder, incest, and treachery. This violent past brought misfortune upon
the entire House of Atreus.

The Trojan War

Agamemnon gathered the reluctant Greek forces to sail for Troy. Preparing to depart from Aulis, which was a port in Boeotia, Agamemnon’s army incurred the wrath of the goddess Artemis. Agamemnon has slain an animal sacred to Artemis, and subsequently boasted that he was Artemis‘ equal in hunting. Misfortunes, including a plague and a lack of wind, prevented the army from sailing. Finally, the prophet Calchas announced that the wrath of the goddess could only be propitiated by the sacrifice of Agamemnon’s daughter Iphigeneia. Agamemnon did eventually sacrifice Iphigeneia. Her death appeased Artemis, and the Greek army set out for Troy.

Agamemnon was the commander-in-chief of the Greeks during the Trojan War. During the fighting, Agamemnon killed Antiphus. Agamemnon’s teamster, Halaesus, later fought with Aeneas in Italy. The Iliad tells the story of the quarrel between Agamemnon and Achilles in the final year of the war. Agamemnon took an attractive slave and spoil of war Briseis from Achilles. Achilles, the greatest warrior of the age, withdrew from battle in revenge and nearly cost the Greek armies the war.

Although not the equal of Achilles in bravery, Agamemnon was a dignified representative of kingly authority. As commander-in-chief, he summoned the princes to the council and led the army in battle. He took the field himself, and performed many heroic deeds until he was wounded and forced to withdraw to his tent. His chief fault was his overweening haughtiness. An over-exalted opinion of his position led him to insult Chryses and Achilles, thereby bringing great disaster upon the Greeks.

After the capture of Troy, Cassandra, doomed prophetess and daughter of Priam, fell to his lot in the distribution of the prizes of war.

After a stormy voyage, Agamemnon and Cassandra landed in Argolis. Clytemnestra, Agamemnon’s wife, had taken a lover, Aegisthus, and they invited Agamemnon to a banquet at which he was treacherously slain. Agamemnon was slain by his wife alone in a bath, a net having first been thrown over him to prevent resistance. Clytemnestra also killed Cassandra. Her wrath at the sacrifice of Iphigenia, and her jealousy of Cassandra, are said to have been the motives of her crime. Aegisthus and Clytemnestra then ruled Agamemnon’s kingdom for a time, but the murder of Agamemnon was eventually avenged by his son Orestes with the help of Electra.