A projector includes an image light generator configured to modulate light emitted from a light source to generate image light, a projection optical device configured to project the image light, a polarization switching element disposed at a light exit side of the image light generator and configured to switch a polarization state of the image light emitted from the image light generator, and a controller configured to control the polarization switching element. The controller controls the polarization switching element to switch the polarization state of the image light with a predetermined period.