As time passed, Periander, the ruler of Corinth, grew old. He found it increasingly difficult to manage the affairs of his kingdom. He realized that he could no longer oversee everything as he once had. Worrying about the future of his rule, he turned his attention to choosing a successor The Lacedaemonians Besiege Samos.
Disappointment in His Eldest Son
Periander first looked to his eldest son. Unfortunately, he found him to be dull and unfit to lead. Seeing no ability in his son to manage the kingdom, Periander decided to seek another heir. He recalled his younger son, Lycophron, from Corcyra, hoping that Lycophron would be a capable ruler.
First Attempt to Bring Back Lycophron
Periander sent a messenger to Corcyra to call Lycophron home. However, Lycophron refused even to speak to the messenger. He ignored the request entirely. Despite this rejection, Periander did not give up. He believed strongly in Lycophron’s abilities and was determined to bring him back to Corinth.
A Sister’s Persuasion
Periander then sent his daughter, the sister of Lycophron, to persuade him. He believed she could convince her brother more effectively than anyone else. When she arrived in Corcyra, she spoke to Lycophron with great care:
“Brother,” she said, “do you want our father’s kingdom and wealth to fall into the hands of strangers? Why punish yourself with stubbornness? Mercy is often greater than justice. Many have lost their father’s wealth while defending their mother’s claims. Power is fragile and has many rivals. Our father is old; do not let your inheritance slip away.”
Her words were well prepared, and she spoke as her father had instructed. She urged Lycophron to return home and take his rightful place as heir to the kingdom Sightseeing Sofia.
Lycophron’s Refusal
Despite his sister’s arguments, Lycophron refused to return. He said he would never go back to Corinth while his father was still alive. He valued his independence and would not let Periander control him.
A Final Attempt
Periander tried one last time. He sent a herald to Corcyra, offering that he himself would come and allow Lycophron to take his place as heir in Corinth. This time, Lycophron agreed to return. Periander prepared to travel to Corcyra, planning for his son to assume the throne.
The Tragic Ending
However, the people of Corcyra learned of these plans. Fearing Periander’s influence, they killed Lycophron to prevent him from leaving. This act enraged Periander. In revenge for his son’s murder, he took vengeance on the Corcyraeans, punishing them severely.
