Zeus's Amorous History (Part 1): Leda and the Swan
"Leda and the Swan" is an enduring subject in mythological-themed paintings, even Leonardo da Vinci explored this theme in his works, with Leda's expression mirroring the enigmatic allure of the Mona Lisa.
Leda, the princess of Troy, the queen of Sparta, and the mother of Helen, embodied the tragic fate of Troy, which was foreseen by previous generations. Her husband, King Tyndareus of Sparta, was exiled and wandered to Troy, where he caught the eye of Leda's father and was married to her. However, Tyndareus forgot to honor Aphrodite after their marriage, incurring the goddess's wrath.
Thus, when Leda was bathing, Zeus took the opportunity to approach her in the form of a swan, facilitated by Aphrodite herself. Leda, not resisting the encounter, allowed Zeus to fulfill his desires, resulting in the birth of two eggs. These eggs hatched into two pairs of twins: Castor and Pollux, and Clytemnestra and Helen. Among them, Pollux and Helen were the offspring of Zeus, while Castor and Clytemnestra were the children of King Tyndareus.
These four children were no ordinary individuals. Castor and Pollux would later become the constellation "Gemini," and both daughters would become infamous figures associated with the tragedies of their respective nations.
Since da Vinci, countless artists have explored the theme of "divinity" and "humanity" through "Leda and the Swan," expressing the desires and predicaments inherent in human nature.
