In Greek mythology, Lycaon was the Trojan prince killed by Achilles after trying to ransom his life with gold.
Lycaon is a son of King Priam. Before the events described in his death scene, Achilles had captured him while Lycaon was cutting fig branches outside Troy. Achilles sold him into slavery, but Lycaon later returned to the battlefield after being bought back.
When Achilles captures him again, Lycaon begs for mercy and offers ransom. Achilles refuses, explaining that Patroclus has recently died and that no Trojan should expect escape. He kills Lycaon and throws his body into the Scamander River.
The scene occurs during Achilles’ furious return to battle in the Iliad. It shows that his grief has made him reject the normal heroic practice of accepting ransom for captured enemies.