Helen of Troy

Helen of Troy has been depicted in many ways by different writers, from Homer onwards. Helen of Troy was both mortal and immortal, born of the coupling of Leda as swan and the god Zeus. She was twin or half-twin to Clytemnestra, Polydeuces and Castor. Helen's abduction -- whether she was willing or not -- by the son of the king of Troy set off one of history's most memorable wars. These resources explore the images of Helen of Troy -- and of feminine "nature" as depicted in Helen's myth.

From Helen - by H.D.
A poem by the feminist poet H.D. depicting Helen of Troy.

Who Really Launched 1000 Ships?
An article by N.S. Gill, Ancient/Classical History Guide at About, on Nemesis and Aphrodite as they relate to the story of Helen of Troy.

The House of Atreus
N.S. Gill, About's Ancient/Classical History Guide, details the tragic Greek family, the House of Atreus, including Helen.

About Helen of Troy
Robert E. Bell outlines the story of Helen, beginning: "Helen of Sparta was perhaps the most inspired character in all literature, ancient or modern." An essay by Jean-Louis Backés follows. Includes illustrations from ancient art.

Helen
A brief sketch about Helen "The Puppet of the Gods" with a list of symbols often associated with Helen of Troy in art.

Helen
Highlights of Helen's story, including the Greek (with translation) from Hyginus and the Troades, and several color images of the depiction of Helen through the ages.

Helen
One of several profiles of characters connected with Troy, this summary of the myths about Helen is a bit hard to read because of the page colors, but is worth the effort.

Helen - by Euripides
Translation by Andrew Wilson -- a modern rendering of the story of Helen, "daughter of Zeus and Leda."

Helen - by Euripides
A translation (E. P. Coleridge) of the text written in the 5th century B.C.E. about Helen, wife of Menelaus.

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