Not only is The Penelopiad important because it raises issues about female representation in classic texts, but also because it addresses issues of inequality based on class that are glossed over in the original piece. Atwood portrays her as human this Penelope is a woman with thoughts, feelings, and desires that make her a multi-angled character. This version of Penelope is relatable and imperfect, unlike her objectified description in The Odyssey. The Penelopiad exposed me to a feminist perspective on such a male-dominated text. The novel recounts the story of Odysseus in the voices of Penelope and a singing chorus of twelve maids who were killed by Odysseus for sleeping with the suitors during his absence. Thankfully, per my English teacher's recommendation, I read Margaret Atwood's The Penelopiad in conjunction with The Odyssey. Whenever Penelope was referenced, I eagerly looked for meaning or recognition of her humanity that never came. In part because of the lack of multi-dimensional female characters, I struggled through The Odyssey when I normally enjoy reading for English class. I was also disappointed by a clear double-standard Odysseus sleeps with countless goddesses and is admired as a hero, whereas Penelope is expected to remain chaste for her husband's prolonged absence. When I read The Odyssey, I was upset to see roots of female stereotypes that are still prevalent in society today. Her character is two-dimensional and, for the most part, irrelevant to Odysseus' escapades. She’s seen as the epitome of faithful wifeliness for her refusal to marry a suitor and for her belief that Odysseus will return. Throughout The Odyssey, Penelope, Odysseus' wife, is characterized as constant, virtuous, and patient. The epic recounts the adventures of the Greek hero Odysseus as he journeys home after the Trojan War, including battles with mythical creatures, cunning deceptions of native populations, and lots of sexual activity with all manner of beautiful goddesses. He gathers together the suitors chosen to ambush and murder Telemachus.Like many high school students, I read Homer’s The Odyssey in English class. Antinous - The ringleader suitor who is approached for information about the ship Telemachus borrowed.Eurycleia - the old faithful servant who kept Telemachus' secret when he left Ithaca and didn't want his mother to let on to the suitors.A phantom of her is sent to comfort Penelope. Iphthime - sister of Penelope, daughter of Lord Icarius and bride of Eumulus.Penelope - the faithful wife of Odysseus who has been keeping the suitors at bay.His daughter is Eidothea, who not only helps Menelaus against her father, but slaughters four seals in order to provide covering for the men. Menelaus has to hold onto him no matter what shape he changes into. He herds seals and can change into any form. Pisistratos accompanies Telemachus on his journey. Younger brother of Trojan War fighters Antilochus and Thrasymedes. On her return, she and her husband Menelaus are long delayed in Egypt where Helen learns some of the magical properties of herbs. Paris took her to Troy and the Greeks came to take her back, fighting the Trojan War over her.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |