Clash of Pyrrhus with Mamertine warrior

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Bust of Pyrrus in Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek

According to the message of Plutarch, Pyrrhus, during his return with his army from Sicily to Italy, had to deal with the Mamertine troops, which attacked him fiercely. It is said that Pyrrhus, as was his habit, actively participated in the fighting. Unfortunately, however, he received a blow to the head and had to withdraw from the battlefield. Then one of the mighty Mamertine warriors began to mock the king of Epirus, thus provoking him to a duel.

Pyrrhus’s hurt pride prevented him from giving up the fight. Filled with rage, the leader pushed his way through his soldiers and was supposed to cut the enemy’s body in half along with one blow. Pyrrhus’ victory was so terrifying that the Mamertines considered him a divine being and were to stop further attacks on enemy troops. Pyrrhus then reached the coast and crossed to Italy to support the allies in the fight against the Romans.

Sources
  • Plutarch, Pyrrhus, 23-24
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