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A Tale Forever Told
Dig Into History Magazine for Kids and Teens
|October 2017
Heavy-hearted Helen of Troy weaves a tapestry of heroic and horrific scenes related to the war being fought “on account of herself.”
She tells Hector that it records events “so that hereafter we may be subjects of song for the people of the future.” Indeed, for centuries, the legendary heroes, rulers, gods and goddesses, and other characters of Homer’s Iliad have inspired legions of composers, filmmakers, artists, writers, game makers, and advertisers worldwide. Countless versions have added—and continue to add—new details to keep this cherished epic alive. In truth, every generation relates to the timeless themes of war’s destruction, power struggles between countries, destiny, revenge, love and hate, and the tragic pursuit of honor and glory.
Screen Stars
Helen became the “It” girl of silent films in the early 1900s. She remained a “star” after sound was introduced, with many 1950s movies casting her as a blonde bombshell. Brawny men played heroes such as Achilles and Hector in movies and on TV. In fact, the 1950’s actor Merle Johnson boosted his popularity when he changed his name to Troy Donahue, while Brad Pitt starred as Achilles in the latest Troy (2007).
This story is from the October 2017 edition of Dig Into History Magazine for Kids and Teens.
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