Student Question
How did Paris meet Helen in the film "Troy"?
Quick answer:
In the film "Troy," Paris meets Helen while the Trojans are in Sparta to negotiate a peace treaty. During the festivities, Paris sneaks into Helen's room, indicating they have been having an affair. Helen expresses concern about his presence, but Paris reassures her. They confess their love for each other, and Paris convinces Helen to leave with him to Troy. The film omits the mythological element of the judgment of Paris.
This is a good question. This is where the book and movie differ greatly. In the movie, Troy, the Trojans are in Sparta to make a treaty of peace. In fact, Menelaus stands up and gives a toast of peace. Hector and Paris stand up and agree to this peace. When this scene ends, there is great festivity. Paris slips into Helen's room. He bolts the door.
Helen says, "you should not be here." Paris then answers, "that is what you said last night and the night before." The point is that Helen and Paris has been having an affair when Paris and Hector came to Sparta on a visit of peace.
Paris finally asks Helen to come to Troy and Helen does. They are madly in love. Helen confesses her love for Paris. Paris does the same. In the next scene the Trojans are going back home on their ships. Paris shows to Hector that Helen is on board.
There is no hint of the mythological story of the judgment of Paris.
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.