Odysseus And Gender Roles In Homer's Odyssey

In the essential odyssey an astute reader can not only enjoy the adventures of Odysseus, but catch a glimpse of ancient greek society as well. By carefully observing the relationships between Odysseus and female characters, a reader can understand the social structures and gender roles of the ancient greeks. When analyzing the female characters through their dress, speech, or actions, distinct female archetypes begin to form. The Odyssey portrays three specific female archetypes, the seductress, the advisor, and the wife. While each of these portrayals can be found in a single female character, they are not mutually exclusive. A character can express more than one of these characteristics or part of them. The tale of Odysseus is one of great danger. His journey constantly tests his strength, courage, and wit. With each trial he passes his status as an ideal male figure is raised along with the reader's understanding of gender roles. One of the most telling conflicts is on the island of Calypso. Calypso, as described in the text, is a beautiful nymph with an equally enchanting voice. She is surrounded by natural beauty, only dressed in a thin silver robe and is gorgeous enough to …show more content…
The most prominent one being the double standard in sex. Penelope is completely loyal to Odysseus during his twenty year absence from her. Although she enjoys the male attention and never directly rejects her suitors, Penelope never sleeps with another man during the entirety of Odysseus absence. However Odysseus sleeps with every almost every female character he meets. This shows a clear double standard in greek society. Another telling action she performs is her weaving. Penelope through her weaving, which is already an important skill for greek women, honors the father of Odysseus. This show the importance of honoring the dead, specifically the male figures, as not one suitor questions her