Trojan War Research Paper

“Tell me, O Muse, of that ingenious hero who travelled far and wide after he had sacked the famous town of Troy” (Homer/”The Odyssey”). The Trojan War was an essential part of Greece’s history and shaped the way that we comprehend Greek mythology. It paved the path of many Greek citizens’ lives and society. We always knew that Helen, Menelaus and Paris were crucial to Greece’s history and shaped the way for numerous stories such as Homer’s The Odyssey. Helen and Paris, impacted the Trojan War through their strong love, actions, and decisions. Although many people influenced Greek mythology, Helen played a big role changing history forever. In the beginning, “Helen chose Menelaus, a prince of Mycenae, to be her husband” (“Helen of Troy”).
“Paris was a handsome, young prince who eloped with the most beautiful woman in the world and caused the Trojan War.” (“Paris”) “Aphrodite… had promised him the most beautiful woman in the world after he proclaimed her the "fairest" goddess. When Paris saw Helen, he knew that Aphrodite had kept her promise.” (“Helen of Troy”) Although, Paris knew he would marry Helen as soon as he laid his eyes on her; her beauty caused a great conflict between Paris and Menelaus, leading to the following events. Thus, “Menelaus offered to fight Paris in single-combat and so settle the issue of the war. Agreeing to this, the two warriors drew lots to see who would have first throw with their spear. Paris won and threw first, but his spear landed harmlessly in the shield of Menelaus.”(“Cartwright”) Later, when Menelaus was close to killing Paris, once again, Aphrodite was there to help by breaking the helmet strap close to taking Paris’ life away. Also covering the prince in a mist of safety, or taking him to the security of his bedroom according to Cartwright. Aphrodite, the goddess of pleasure and love assured Paris the security and help that she granted him. The story of Paris’ fight for Helen shows what true love is and revamps the way we learn about Greek