A Midsummer Night's Dream 5.1.197 Discussion: Helen of Troy

The transcript discusses Helen of Troy, known for her beauty and marriage to King Menelaus. Her abduction by Paris led to the Trojan War. Some myths suggest Helen left willingly. Shakespeare's audience would find humor in references to Helen's fidelity.

Who was Helen of Troy married to?

• Odysseus

• King Agamemnon

• King Menelaus

• Prince Paris

What event was triggered by Helen's abduction?

• The Persian Wars

• The Trojan War

• The Peloponnesian War

• The Battle of Marathon

Who abducted Helen according to the myth?

• Paris

• Achilles

• Hector

• Odysseus

According to some versions of the myth, what did Helen do?

• She never left Sparta.

• She was rescued by the Greeks immediately.

• She willingly ran off with Paris.

• She was forced to leave with Paris.

How would Shakespeare's audience have viewed the story of Helen?

• As a tragic love story

• As a tale of betrayal

• As a historical account

• As a humorous example of fidelity