From “Bane Helen” to Queen Helen: Helen as Savior and Analogue for Ptolemaic Queens in Theriaca 309–19

summary:

In this paper, I argue that Nicander represents a benign Helen in his myth at Theriaca 309–19. Despite her ominous name Αἰνελένη (“Bane Helen,” 310) and her violence towards the snake in the narrative, this Helen is ultimately a savior for mankind. For this reason, I connect Nicander’s positive portrayal to the Ptolemaic treatment of Helen. Much like the Egyptian goddess Isis, Helen became an analogue for the divinized and benevolent Ptolemaic queens.