Beware of Greeks bearing gifts

Beware of Greeks bearing gifts

The phrase "Beware of Greeks bearing gifts" is a well-known proverb that warns against accepting gifts or favors from others, especially when there may be hidden motives or ulterior motives behind them. The origin of this phrase can be traced back to the story of the Trojan War, specifically the tale of the Trojan Horse.

In Greek mythology, the Trojan War was fought between the Greeks and the Trojans over the beautiful Helen of Troy. After years of fighting, the Greeks came up with a cunning plan to finally defeat the Trojans. They built a giant wooden horse as a gift to the Trojans, claiming it was a peace offering. However, hidden inside the horse were Greek soldiers waiting to attack once the Trojans had brought the horse inside their city walls.

The Trojans, unaware of the Greeks' true intentions, accepted the gift and brought it inside their city. That night, the Greek soldiers emerged from the horse and opened the gates of Troy, allowing the rest of the Greek army to enter and conquer the city. The phrase "Beware of Greeks bearing gifts" comes from this story, warning against accepting gifts from potential enemies or those who may have malicious intentions.