Greek Mythology Reference Wiki
A chronological index of myths and stories, from the birth of the cosmos to the heroic age.
The Trojan Horse
The Greek army used a clever ruse — the Trojan Horse — to infiltrate and ultimately destroy the city of Troy.
1. Context
After ten years of siege, the Greeks were unable to breach Troy’s walls. Odysseus devised a cunning plan to trick the Trojans and end the war.
2. Construction of the Horse
The Greeks built a massive wooden horse, hollowed to conceal armed warriors inside. They left it at the gates of Troy as an offering to the gods, claiming it symbolized their departure and appeasement.
3. The Deception
- The Trojans debated whether to bring the horse inside the city, fearing a trap.
- Cassandra, the prophetess, warned of danger, but her warnings were ignored due to her curse of being disbelieved.
- The Trojans brought the horse into the city as a symbol of victory and submission of the Greeks.
4. The Greek Attack
At night, the Greek warriors hidden inside the horse emerged, opening the city gates for the returning Greek army. Troy was sacked; its defenders were killed or enslaved, and the city was destroyed.
5. Symbolic Meaning
- The Trojan Horse represents cunning, strategy, and intelligence over brute force.
- It illustrates the consequences of pride, naivety, and ignoring warnings.
- The story embodies themes of deception, fate, and the fragile nature of human security.
6. Genealogical Snapshot
Troy:
├─ Priam + Hecuba
│ ├─ Hector
│ └─ Paris
Greece:
├─ Agamemnon + Clytemnestra
├─ Menelaus + Helen
└─ Odysseus (strategist of the Trojan Horse)