Paris (mythology) facts for kids
Paris, also known as Alexandros, is a famous character from Greek mythology. He played a very important part in the Trojan War, which is a big story told in Homer's epic poem, the Iliad.
Paris was the son of King Priam of Troy and his wife, Queen Hecuba. Before he was born, it was predicted that he would cause the destruction of Troy. Because of this prophecy, his parents left him in the wilderness to die. However, a kind shepherd found baby Paris and raised him as his own son. He named the boy Paris.
The Judgment of Paris
Paris later became involved in a famous event called the "Judgment of Paris." Three goddesses, Hera, Athena, and Aphrodite, asked him to choose which of them was the most beautiful. Each goddess offered him a bribe. Aphrodite promised him the most beautiful woman in the world, Helen. Helen was already married to Menelaus, who was the king of Sparta.
Paris chose Aphrodite. He then traveled to Sparta and, with Aphrodite's help, convinced Helen to leave Menelaus and come with him to Troy. This act of taking Helen was a major reason why the Trojan War began.
Role in the Trojan War
During the long and fierce Trojan War, Paris fought against the Greek heroes. He was known for his skill with a bow and arrow. One of his most famous actions was killing the great Greek warrior Achilles. Paris shot Achilles in his heel with a poisoned arrow. This was the only weak spot Achilles had, and it led to his death.
Death of Paris
Near the end of the Trojan War, Paris himself was killed. He was shot by another skilled archer named Philoctetes. His death marked another important moment in the final days of the war.
Images for kids
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Paris, a Roman marble statue showing him in a special hat called a Phrygian cap.
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Abduction of Helen, a ceiling painting from the mid-18th century.
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See also
In Spanish: Paris para niños
