Source edition
Lucian, Vol. 3. Harmon, Austin Morris, editor. London: William Heinemann, Ltd.; Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press, 1921.
Source data
Perseus Digital Library · CC BY-SA 4.0
Cloned and adapted by Humanitext, with ongoing edits.
Summary
This prose work humorously depicts the famous Greek mythological episode of the "Judgement of Paris" in a dialogue format. The story begins when Zeus commands his messenger Hermes to lead the three goddesses—Hera, Athena, and Aphrodite—to the Phrygian shepherd Paris to decide who is the most beautiful. During their journey to Mount Ida, the goddesses and Hermes converse about Paris's character. Upon arrival, the bewildered Paris is tasked with the judgement and requests that the goddesses undress for an accurate assessment. Hera offers him the sovereignty of Asia and Athena promises victory in battle, but Paris rejects these bribes. Ultimately, Aphrodite secures his favor by promising him marriage to the beautiful Helen of Sparta and the assistance of the gods of love, leading Paris to award her the golden apple of beauty.