The story of the Judgement of Paris is an ancient Greek myth that has captivated audiences for centuries. It is a tale of beauty, rivalry, and ultimately, the power of choice. The message behind this myth is multifaceted, exploring themes such as beauty standards, personal preferences, and the consequences of our decisions.
The Mythological Background
In Greek mythology, Eris, the goddess of discord, was not invited to a wedding feast on Mount Olympus. In her anger and desire for revenge, she threw a golden apple into the midst of the gods and goddesses.
The apple had an inscription on it that read “For the fairest. “
The Three Goddesses
Three powerful goddesses—Hera, Athena, and Aphrodite—claimed the apple as their own due to their belief that they were the fairest. Unable to resolve their dispute themselves, they turned to a mortal man named Paris to make the decision.
Paris’s Choice
Paris was a prince of Troy known for his handsome appearance. Each goddess offered him a bribe in exchange for being chosen as the fairest.
- Hera, queen of gods and goddesses and wife of Zeus, promised him power and dominion over all nations if he chose her.
- Athena, goddess of wisdom and warfare, offered him great victory in battles.
- Aphrodite, goddess of love and beauty, tempted Paris with the most beautiful mortal woman in the world as his wife—Helen.
Intrigued by Aphrodite’s promise of Helen’s love, Paris chose her as the fairest. This choice ultimately led to the Trojan War, as Helen was already married to Menelaus, the king of Sparta.
The Message
The Judgement of Paris carries several messages that are still relevant today.
Subjectivity of Beauty
The myth highlights the subjectivity of beauty and the different standards that exist. Each goddess believed she was the fairest, showcasing how beauty is in the eye of the beholder. This reminds us not to judge ourselves or others solely based on societal beauty norms.
Power of Choice
Paris’s decision showcases the power of choice and its consequences. His choice not only affected his own life but also triggered a war that lasted for ten years. It serves as a reminder that our decisions, even seemingly small ones, can have significant impacts on our lives and those around us.
Personal Preferences
The myth emphasizes personal preferences in decision-making. Paris chose love and passion over power and victory, indicating that personal desires can influence our choices more than external rewards or societal expectations.
In Conclusion
The Judgement of Paris is a captivating myth with timeless messages about beauty, choice, and personal preferences. It reminds us to appreciate diverse standards of beauty, consider the consequences of our decisions, and honor our personal desires when making choices.