The Poem "Helen"

Exploring "Helen" by Hilda Doolittle

"Helen" by Hilda Doolittle, also known as H.D., is a poignant poem that critiques the societal treatment of women through the lens of the mythological figure Helen of Troy. Written in 1924, not 1961 as previously stated, the poem is structured in three stanzas of free verse, each stanza varying in length and intensity. H.D.'s language is concise and evocative, focusing on Helen's physical beauty and the scorn she receives from the Greek people. The poem addresses themes of misogyny and the objectification of women, using Helen's story to comment on the tendency to blame women for the actions of men and to judge them solely on their appearance.

The Historical and Mythological Context of "Helen"

Understanding the historical and mythological context is crucial for interpreting H.D.'s "Helen." Helen of Troy, the protagonist of the poem, is a legendary figure from Greek mythology renowned for her beauty. Her abduction by Paris, Prince of Troy, led to the Trojan War, a central event in Greek mythology and literature, particularly in Homer's epic, the "Iliad." However, H.D.'s poem eschews the narrative of the myth to focus on the symbolic representation of Helen, using her as a vehicle to explore the deep-seated attitudes towards women that span from the mythological era to the poet's own time in the early 20th century.

Analyzing the Structure and Imagery of "Helen"

The structure of "Helen" is deliberate, with each stanza's increasing length reflecting the escalating emotional resonance of the poem. The first stanza depicts Helen as an object of universal disdain, her ghostly pallor and stillness likening her to a marble statue rather than a living being. The second stanza amplifies this disdain, showing that even Helen's smile, which should evoke warmth, instead reminds the Greeks of their own pain and loss. The final stanza culminates in the revelation that Helen, despite her divine heritage and physical allure, is only embraced by the people in death, her beauty reduced to "white ash amid funereal cypresses."

The Significance of "Helen" in Literary Discourse

H.D.'s "Helen" is a succinct yet profound meditation on the objectification and demonization of women. The poem portrays the Greeks' hatred for Helen as a reflection of her beauty and perceived role in the Trojan War, suggesting that her appearance, rather than Paris's actions, is held accountable for the conflict. This mirrors the broader societal pattern of blaming women for the conduct of men, a theme that resonates with ongoing conversations about misogyny and victim-blaming. In the poem, Helen is a silent figure, her inner life eclipsed by her outward beauty, which becomes the basis for her vilification.

Employing Literary Devices to Enhance "Helen"

H.D. utilizes a range of literary devices to reinforce the poem's thematic depth and emotional impact. Strategic use of rhyme adds a musical quality, while alliteration emphasizes the severity of Helen's treatment. Allusions to Helen's mythological background highlight the tragic irony of her situation: conceived in love but surrounded by hatred. The poem's irony is further underscored by the contrast between Helen's celebrated beauty and the loathing it provokes among the Greeks. These literary techniques work together to accentuate the poem's central messages and encourage readers to question traditional narratives about Helen of Troy.

Misogyny and Mythology as Central Themes

Misogyny and mythology are intertwined themes in "Helen." H.D. employs the myth of Helen of Troy to expose misogynistic attitudes that persist across time, where women are judged and condemned based on their physical appearance, often being deprived of their agency. The poem also contemplates the influence of mythology on cultural norms, suggesting that ancient tales continue to shape contemporary societal views, particularly regarding the treatment of women. By drawing parallels between antiquity and her present day, H.D.'s "Helen" serves as a powerful critique of the enduring nature of patriarchal values and underscores the importance of reevaluating the stories that shape our collective consciousness.