Teukros

Ancient Greek Mythology

In ancient Greek mythology, there are two distinct characters named Teukros (Τεύκρος), often referred to as Tevker or Tevkria.

### Origins and Family

Teukros was said to be the son of Scamander, a river god, and Idea, a nymph. He is considered the first king of Troy, and his name is associated with the city's early history. The earth, then called Dardania (and later Troy), was named Tevkria in his honor.

### First Teukros

This Teukros had a daughter named Batya, who married King Dardan. After his death, the kingdom began to be known as Dardania. Later, the Trojans referred to themselves as Teucri.

### Second Teukros

The second Teukros was the son of Telamon and Hesione, a daughter of Laomedon, the king of Troy. He was the brother of Ajax Telamonid, one of the greatest heroes of the Trojan War. Teukros was renowned for his exceptional archery skills, having killed over 30 Trojans with his arrows during the war.

### The Trojan War and Aftermath

During the Trojan War, Teukros participated in the funeral games for Achilles and fought bravely to claim Achilles' armor. However, he failed to save his brother from taking his own life. Teukros was one of the warriors who rode into Troy on the wooden horse, but after the war's end, he returned to his homeland (Salamis) only to be accused by his father for not avenging his brother's death and being expelled.

### Exile and Founding of Salamin

Teukros fled to Cyprus, where he founded the city-state of Salamin. His descendants would later become prominent in Greek mythology.

Note: The two accounts of Teukros' life are distinct but share some common elements, such as his association with Troy and his exceptional archery skills.