What Did the 3 Goddesses Offer Paris?

By Michael Ferguson

In Greek mythology, the story of the Trojan War is one of the most well-known and captivating tales. At the center of this epic war is the story of a golden apple and three goddesses who competed for it.

The goddesses were Hera, Athena, and Aphrodite, each offering Paris, a mortal man, something different in exchange for the apple. But what did these three goddesses offer Paris? Let’s take a closer look.

The Judgement of Paris

The story begins with Eris, the goddess of strife and discord, throwing a golden apple with the inscription “to the fairest” into a banquet held by Zeus. Hera, Athena, and Aphrodite all claimed to be the fairest goddess and demanded that Zeus choose between them. Unable to decide, Zeus asked Hermes to bring Paris to judge which goddess was truly the fairest.

Hera’s Offer

Hera was known as the queen of gods and married to Zeus. She offered Paris power and wealth beyond his wildest dreams if he were to choose her as the fairest goddess. Hera promised him that he would become king of all nations and rule over them with an iron fist.

Paris must have been tempted by this offer since it would have given him everything he could ever want in life. However, he still had two more offers to consider.

Athena’s Offer

Athena was known as the goddess of wisdom, courage, and strategic warfare. She offered Paris victory in battle if he were to choose her as the fairest goddess. Athena promised him that she would make him invincible in all battles and would always be by his side to guide him in times of war.

Paris may have been swayed by Athena’s offer since he was born into a family that valued bravery and victory in battle above all else. But there was still one more goddess to consider.

Aphrodite’s Offer

Aphrodite was known as the goddess of love, beauty, and pleasure. She offered Paris the most beautiful woman in the world if he were to choose her as the fairest goddess. Aphrodite promised him that he would have Helen of Sparta, the most beautiful woman in Greece, as his wife.

Paris could not resist this offer, and he chose Aphrodite as the fairest goddess. However, this decision led to the Trojan War since Helen was already married to King Menelaus of Sparta. Paris abducted Helen, and Menelaus sought revenge by gathering an army and attacking Troy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Hera offered Paris power and wealth, Athena offered him victory in battle, and Aphrodite offered him the most beautiful woman in the world. Paris chose Aphrodite’s offer, which ultimately led to the Trojan War. This story teaches us that our choices have consequences and that we should think carefully before making a decision.

  • Hera: Power and wealth beyond his wildest dreams.
  • Athena: Victory in battle.
  • Aphrodite: The most beautiful woman in the world.

Overall, this is a fascinating story with many lessons to be learned. It’s also a reminder of how powerful Greek mythology is in shaping our culture and understanding of history.