Key Info

- Queen of Sparta, Princess of Troy 

- Considered the most beautiful mortal in the world 

- Known as the face that launched a thousand ships and as the "cause" of the Trojan War

Brief Bio

Helen of Troy is a central figure in Greek mythology, often described as the most beautiful woman in the world. She is traditionally believed to be the daughter of Zeus, either through Leda or the goddess Nemesis, and the sister of important figures like Clytemnestra and Castor. Helen's marriage to Menelaus, the king of Sparta, occurred after a fierce competition among her many suitors who were bound by the Oath of Tyndareus to defend the chosen husband in the event of any quarrels over her.

Her abduction by Paris, a prince of Troy, is considered the spark that ignited the Trojan War, culminating in a decade-long conflict between the Greeks and Trojans. The narrative surrounding her departure with Paris varies across sources, with some depicting it as a willing elopement, while others suggest she was kidnapped. 

After the fall of Troy, Helen returned to Sparta with Menelaus, where they reportedly lived happily until their deaths. Helen’s story has been a source of fascination throughout history, inspiring countless works of art and literature, often symbolizing the themes of beauty, desire, and the consequences of human actions.