The New York Times Crossword · 8-Across · 5 letters
Mythical figure in "Doctor Faustus" The New York Times Crossword clue
Editorially reviewed August 28, 2026
Confirm the reference
Reveal the name now—or narrow the reference first.
Identity cue
Think of the five-letter first name of the face that launched a thousand ships.
Open the answer and verify the referenceOne click · no signup
Answer
Why this is the right reference
HELEN fits because Faustus summons the famous beauty associated with Troy in the play's final portion.
Continue this puzzle"Oh, what the hell" →Reference to identify
The quoted play title asks for a mythological character appearing in it.
Who or what the answer is
Helen of Troy is the legendary Greek figure whose apparition appears in Christopher Marlowe's "Doctor Faustus."
Where this clue appeared
8-Across in The New York Times Crossword puzzle for August 28, 2026.
Browse selected The New York Times Crossword clues →More selected clues from The New York Times Crossword · August 28, 2026
Continue with independently explained clues from the same puzzle date. This is a selected learning set, not a complete answer list.
See HELEN meaning and common clue patterns →
Solve the next clue here.
Paste another clue, add the letters you trust, and keep solving without returning to search.
This independently written explanation is for learning and clue analysis. Crossword Clue Tutor is not affiliated with or endorsed by The New York Times Crossword or its publisher.