Helen of Troy

Helen of Troy, also known as Helen of Sparta, is a heroine from Greek Mythology. She was the daughter of Zeus and Leda and the wife of King Menelaus. She was described by author Christopher Marlowe as having "the face that launched a thousand ships."¹

Fast Facts

1. Helen or Helene is derived from the Greek word meaning "Torch" or "corposant"
2. Helen is the daughter of Zeus and Leda
3. Kidnapped by King Theseus of Athens at the age of 10.
4. Her brothers Castor and Polydeuces rescued her
5. After numerous suitors, chose to marry King Menalaus, King of Sparta²
6. Met Paris of Troy while he visited Sparta
7. Her betrayal of Menalaus is believed to be cause of Trojan War³

Related Pages on Mahalo

Mythology | Greek Mythology | Troy Movie | Christopher Marlowe | Homer | The Iliad | The Odyssey

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