Laocoon
Trojan priest and seer who argues against keeping the horse before a serpent omen overwhelms his warning.
Overview
Laocoon is a Trojan priest or seer who, in Pseudo-Apollodorus’ horse narrative, joins Cassandra in opposing the decision to keep it. Some Trojans argue for burning the structure or throwing it from a cliff, while others treat it as a sacred offering. His presence shows that Troy does not fall because every inhabitant is free of suspicion. Two sea serpents then consume his sons, an event the text calls a sign sent by Apollo. The city’s interpretation of the omen overrules practical judgement about the horse. Virgil’s Aeneid later supplies the most famous version, but this account keeps the shorter Pseudo-Apollodoran version separate rather than blending details.
Relationships
- Wooden Horseurges destruction
Laocoon supports burning the horse or casting it down.
Story appearances
- The Trojan WarPriest and seer opposing the horse
Urges destruction of the horse, but a serpent omen and collective interpretation overrule him.
Ancient sources
MythWeave distinguishes ancient-source evidence from later adaptations and modern interpretation.