Image for The Judgement of Paris (John William Waterhouse)

The Judgement of Paris (John William Waterhouse)

"The Judgement of Paris" by John William Waterhouse depicts the mythological moment when Paris, a Trojan prince, is asked to choose the fairest among Hera, Athena, and Aphrodite. Each goddess offers him a tempting reward: Hera offers power, Athena wisdom and victory, and Aphrodite promises the love of the most beautiful woman, Helen. Paris's choice, favoring Aphrodite’s bribe, leads to the Trojan War. Waterhouse’s painting captures this pivotal scene with emphasis on the judgment, highlighting themes of beauty, desire, and the consequences of choice within Greek mythology.