A postmodern Helen. Juicio a una zorra by Miguel del Arco

Abstract

This paper analyzes the treatment given to the figure of Helen of Troy in the play Juicio a una zorra (2011), which provides us with a human and postmodern model of a woman who takes her own decisions and faces the consequences. The author, Miguel del Arco (Madrid, 1965), takes advantage of the rich and complex mythical tradition developed around Helen from Antiquity and, subverting it, he offers us a new point of view, making her character appear in the presence of a public who judges her, to explain her version of the events which led to her abuse and subsequent humiliation. In that way, the play outlines a twentyfirst century Helen whom the contemporary spectator can fully understand.