the face that launched a thousand ships

"The face that launched a thousand ships" is a famous phrase originating from Christopher Marlowe's play "Doctor Faustus." It refers to the beauty of Helen of Troy, whom many consider the most beautiful woman in the world. According to Greek mythology, Helen's abduction by Prince Paris of Troy sparked the Trojan War, leading to a thousand Greek ships gathering to sail to Troy and bring her back. Therefore, the phrase implies that Helen's unparalleled beauty had such a captivating effect that it caused an immense and significant event. It is often used to describe someone or something with such extraordinary attractiveness or allure that it has the potential to cause great upheaval or inspire great actions.