Hésione
Princess of Troy, object of divine rivalry.
Hésione is a princess whose romantic entanglements and family ties drive a mythological narrative involving divine intervention. Her story is notable for its connection to the Trojan royal house and the goddess Venus's schemes.
Quick Facts
- Role
- Princess
- Kingdom
- Troy
- Father
- Laomédon (Laomedon), King of Troy
- Rival suitors
- Télamon (Telamon)
- King of Salamis
- and Anchise (Anchises)
Facts from the source article.
Synopsis
In the narrative, Hésione is the daughter of Laomédon, King of Troy. She is loved by both Télamon, King of Salamis, and Anchise, but prefers Anchise, causing Télamon's unhappiness. The goddess Venus intervenes, first attempting to win Anchise's love and, after being rejected, taking revenge on Hésione. Venus makes Hésione believe Anchise has fallen for the goddess, provoking her jealousy. Later, Venus conjures a vision of Hésione with Télamon to make Anchise jealous, though the couple discovers the illusion and reconciles. Meanwhile, Neptune, angry with Laomédon, destroys Troy's walls and sends a sea monster. Télamon promises to vanquish the monster in exchange for Hésione's hand in marriage. Anchise also tries but fails, as Venus has arranged that only Télamon can succeed. Télamon defeats the monster, and the Trojans celebrate his victory and betrothal to Hésione. Anchise curses them and predicts Troy's destruction, and the gods award Anchise to Venus, who has him carried off.
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