The Library
of Alexandria

A character in The Aeneid

Who is Pallas?

By the Library of Alexandria · 2 minute read · Updated 23 Oct 2026

In short

  • Pallas is Evander's young son, who joins Aeneas in the Italian war in Virgil's The Aeneid.
  • He is eager and brave, and his father sends him to learn warfare beside the Trojan leader.
  • Aeneas promises to protect Pallas, accepting the trust that Evander places in him.

Who Pallas is

Pallas is the young son of Evander, a Greek king whose settlement stands beside the river Tiber. He enters Aeneas's story when the Trojan leader seeks allies for the fighting in Italy. Eager and brave, Pallas goes with Aeneas to learn the craft of war through experience.

Pallas and the others in the story

Evander is too old to fight, but he offers Aeneas cavalry and sends Pallas to accompany him. His trust gives their alliance a personal meaning, placing his son's care in another leader's hands. Aeneas promises to protect Pallas, bringing responsibility for the young warrior alongside his duties to his own people.

Questions

Who is Pallas in The Aeneid?

Pallas is a brave young warrior and the son of King Evander.

Why does Pallas join Aeneas?

His father sends him to fight beside Aeneas and learn warfare.

Is Pallas related to Aeneas?

Pallas is Evander's son, not Aeneas's. Aeneas takes responsibility for protecting him during the war.

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