Paris, also known as Alexander, was a prince of Troy whose actions precipitated the Trojan War. Renowned for his striking beauty and tragic choices, he is most infamous for awarding the golden apple to Aphrodite in the Judgement of Paris and for abducting Helen, Queen of Sparta. These events led to a decade-long conflict that culminated in the fall of Troy.
Family and Relations
- Father: King Priam of Troy
- Mother: Queen Hecuba
- Siblings: Included Hector, Cassandra, Deiphobus, Helenus, and others
- Consorts:
- Oenone: A nymph and his first love, who possessed healing powers.
- Helen: Queen of Sparta, whose abduction by Paris led to the Trojan War.
- Children:
- With Oenone: Corythus
- With Helen: Bunomus, Aganus, Idaeus, and a daughter also named Helen
Key Myths and Deeds
- Prophetic Birth: Before Paris’s birth, Hecuba dreamed of giving birth to a flaming torch, interpreted as a sign that her child would lead to Troy’s destruction. To prevent this, Paris was abandoned on Mount Ida but was rescued and raised by shepherds.
- Judgement of Paris: Tasked with deciding the fairest among Hera, Athena, and Aphrodite, Paris chose Aphrodite, who promised him the love of the most beautiful woman, Helen.
- Abduction of Helen: Paris’s taking of Helen from Sparta ignited the Trojan War, as her former suitors, bound by an oath, united to retrieve her.
- Duel with Menelaus: Paris challenged Helen’s husband, Menelaus, to single combat but was saved from defeat by Aphrodite, who transported him back to Troy.
- Death of Achilles: With Apollo’s assistance, Paris fatally wounded Achilles by shooting an arrow into his heel, his only vulnerable spot.
- Demise: Wounded by the archer Philoctetes, Paris sought healing from Oenone, who refused. He died from his injuries, and Oenone, overcome with grief, later took her own life.
Modern Appearances
Books and Literature
- The Iliad by Homer: Paris is portrayed as a handsome but less valorous prince, whose actions have dire consequences for Troy.
- Heroides by Ovid: Features a letter from Paris to Helen, expressing his love and intentions.
- The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller: While focusing on Achilles, Paris’s role in the hero’s fate is depicted.
Film and Television
- Troy (2004): Orlando Bloom portrays Paris as a romantic figure whose choices lead to war.
- Helen of Troy (1956): Depicts Paris’s relationship with Helen and the ensuing conflict.
- The Fury of Achilles (1962): Features Paris’s role in Achilles’s death.
Opera and Theater
- La Belle Hélène by Jacques Offenbach: A comedic operetta focusing on Paris’s seduction of Helen.
- King Priam by Michael Tippett: Explores Paris’s actions and their impact on his family and Troy.
Video Games
- Assassin’s Creed Odyssey: References to Paris and the Trojan War are present in the game’s lore.
- Total War Saga: Troy: Paris is a playable character, with gameplay focusing on his diplomatic and romantic endeavors.