Tag Archives: Helen-Paris

We all know that Paris kidnapped Helen (who actually voluntarily went with Paris) because he fell in love with her.  He talks about how beautiful she is, how he’s head over heels for her, etc.  Even Pandarus comments about her marvelous white skin.  Thus, the Trojan War began for Helen’s return.

But is Helen really that beautiful?  In all Greek mythology, Helen is stated to be the most beautiful woman in the world yet it is only Paris who approaches her.  Of course she is the wife to King Menelaus but it seems that there are only these two men who are in love with her.  If you are the most beautiful woman in the world, wouldn’t you have countless suitors after your love?  Wouldn’t you have every man as your slave kissing your feet and tending to your every need?

Indeed she is flattered by others such as Pandarus: “What says my sweet queen, my very, very sweet queen?” (3.1.81-2).  She receives many other compliments but you would think they would also be after this very beautiful, sweet lady’s companionship.

I guess proclaiming a war over her is enough to state her utmost beauty.  But if she had a magic mirror on the wall, would it be able to reply that she is the fairest of them all?