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==Introduction==

There are many extraordinary characters and events in Greek and Roman mythology. One of the most remarkable figures of Classical Mythology is Memnon, an African hero. He played a crucial role in the Trojan War and was regarded by the Greeks and others as one of the greatest of all the heroes and demi-gods. Indeed, he almost turned the tide of the Trojan War, such was his prowess and bravery. Memnon was a revered figure and he inspired great works of literature and also art. The story of this African hero is one that provides a crucial insight into the worldview of the Ancient World. It demonstrates that when it came to race that they were often more tolerant and saw all people as inherently equal. The story of Memnon is one that needs to be better known and understood in today’s very divided world.

==The historicity of the Ethiopian Hero==

Like many mythical heroes, the character of Memnon may have been based on a historical hero. This is a phenomenon that has occurred many times in the past and across all cultures. Some academics believe that the Ethiopian hero was based on a Pharaoh. It is possible that the fabled hero was inspired by one of the Nubian monarchs who conquered Egypt <ref> Griffith, R. D. The origin of Memnon. Classical Antiquity, 17(2) (1998). 212-234</ref>. They established the Kushite dynasty and ruled a vast empire that included much of modern Egypt, North and South Sudan (744–656 BC). Some academics argue that the figure of Memnon is based on the great Egyptian king Amenhotep III (1381-1355 BC), often known as the Magnificent, because of his achievements. This was the view of the Egyptian historian Manetho. However some believe that the hero was based on the might ruler Seti I (1294-1279 BC)<ref> Griffith, R. Drew. "The origin of Memnon." Classical Antiquity 17, no. 2 (1998): 212-234</ref>Memnon's death is related at length in the lost epic Aethiopis, composed after The Iliad circa the 7th century B.C. When the Romans, under Augustus, added Egypt to their Empire, they believed that the statues of Amenhotep, were actually representations of Memnon. One of the statues was the famous Colossi of Memnon. This supposedly made sounds when it was struck by the first light of the rising sun and was one of the wonders of the Classical World<ref> Bowersock, Glen Warren. "The miracle of Memnon." The Bulletin of the American Society of Papyrologists 21, no. 1/4 (1984): 21-32</ref>. Another possibility is that the character was based on an unknown African king, whose name has not been recorded by history, but the Greeks were made aware of his achievements by tales, spread by merchants and travelers.