Xena: Warrior Princess Episode 1.12: “Beware Greeks Bearing Gifts”

[chavalah.livejournal.com]

It’s not unusual for Xena to enter a real piece of history or mythology and make it her own, but I’m particularly drawn to the show’s interpretation of Helen of Troy for being so feminist. In the real world, “the face that launched a thousands ships” is a convenient way for blood-thirsty men to blame their own natures on a woman’s wiles. “Xena” keeps with the idea that that Helen was an integral catalyst for the war…but it questions the underlying motives of her lovers, whether they, in fact, actually do love her, and what the heck it is that she might want out of her own life.

And as a nice contrast to this story we have Gabrielle and Perdicas—not just any episodic boy toy but the fiancé she left to travel the world with Xena. Back then he was resentful of her choices…but what about now, since he’s also left home for a greater cause? You’ll have to jump under the cut to find out! :P

( Episode Summary and Spoilers )