The apple of discord is a symbol of Helen of Troy's beauty and the strife it caused among the gods and mortals. Eris, the goddess of discord, threw a golden apple inscribed "For the Fairest" into a gathering of gods and goddesses, causing strife among them. Paris, the Trojan prince, was chosen to judge who was the fairest and awarded the apple to Aphrodite, who had promised him the most beautiful woman in the world. This led to the Trojan War, as Paris took Helen of Troy from her husband, Menelaus, king of Sparta.
2. The Swan:
In Greek mythology, Helen was said to have been hatched from a swan's egg. This symbolism is often used to depict Helen's beauty and grace, as well as her mysterious origins and divine status.
3. The Trojan Horse:
The Trojan Horse is a symbol of Helen's deceptive nature and the downfall of Troy. After a ten-year siege, the Greeks devised a cunning plan to breach the walls of Troy. They built a giant wooden horse and left it as an offering to the Trojan gods. The Trojans brought it inside the city walls, unaware that it was filled with Greek soldiers. At night, the Greeks emerged from the horse and attacked Troy, leading to its destruction.
4. The Judgement of Paris:
The Judgement of Paris refers to the myth in which Paris, a Trojan prince, had to choose the most beautiful goddess among Aphrodite, Athena, and Hera. Aphrodite promised Paris the most beautiful woman in the world, Helen, in exchange for his vote. This ultimately led to the Trojan War, as Paris chose Aphrodite and took Helen from her husband, Menelaus.
5. The Face That Launched A Thousand Ships:
This phrase is commonly associated with Helen of Troy and refers to her extraordinary beauty that is said to have sparked the Trojan War. The war involved thousands of ships and soldiers, highlighting the far-reaching consequences of Helen's abduction.
6. Beauty and Desire:
Helen of Troy is often portrayed as the embodiment of beauty and desire. Her irresistibility and allure are depicted as forces that can drive men to extreme actions, such as the Trojan War fought for her sake.
7. Destruction and Tragedy:
Helen's elopement with Paris brought destruction to Troy and countless lives lost. She is viewed as a symbol of the tragic events and consequences arising from passion, desire, and conflict.
8. Fate and Destiny:
Helen's story raises questions about fate and destiny. Her role as a catalyst for the Trojan War implies a predetermined path for her to fulfill.
9. Art and Literature:
Helen of Troy has been a subject of inspiration for numerous works of art and literature throughout history. her legend has been depicted in various forms, contributing to her portrayal and symbolism.