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The Rest Is History
458. Helen of Troy: A Family of Blood (Part 2)
Jun 5, 2024
Uncover the fascinating life of Heinrich Schliemann and his obsession with Helen of Troy. Explore the cursed family saga of Agamemnon, filled with betrayal, revenge, and cannibalism. Discover the misconceptions surrounding Agamemnon's face and the evolution of Greek mythology over time. Dive into the role of Bronze Age queens like Helen and Clytemnestra, exploring themes of power and gender roles in ancient Greece.
51:04
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Quick takeaways
- Helen of Troy's semi-divine status linked to unique hair colors in Bronze Age suggests ancient traditions of powerful women.
- Clytemnestra's agency and dominance challenge traditional victim narratives, reflecting societal anxieties about women's power.
Deep dives
The Myth of Helen and Clytemnestra in the Bronze Age
The podcast explores the possible historicity of the iconic figures Helen and Clytemnestra from Homer's epics, delving into the Bronze Age context. Evidence suggests that their portrayals might be rooted in real practices of powerful women during that era, supported by archaeological findings and traditions. The image of Helen as a golden-haired princess with divine connections (xanthé), supported by archaeological evidence of women with unique hair colors, implies a status of semi-divinity. The roles of women, their presence in citadels, unsegregated living, evidence of weaving, and the symbolism of necklaces found in the Bronze Age hint at the similarities with descriptions of Helen and Clytemnestra in Homer's epics.
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Discover
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