Themes Of The Greek Literature - 1409 Words

Throughout surviving Greek literature, many themes can be identified that give ideas about what life was like at the time of their origin. For example, themes such as honor and bravery are prevalent which exemplifies the importance of glory in ancient Greek men, which could be used to explain motives and behavior. Many themes, however, can go hand in hand to create a certain narrative. The theme of misogyny, combined with deceit and trickery, is prevalent in Hesiodic and Homeric literature through the descriptions of the treatment of women and how they exercise power. According to Hesiod s Theogony and Works and Days, the beautiful Pandora was the very first mortal woman to be created by the gods and goddesses of Olympus. She is named†¦show more content†¦The fundamental sexism that is apparent in Hesiod’s works reflects the Greek societal structure in the subjugation of women to men. When Pandora opened the jar and unleashed evils upon the world, her actions exemplify how women are regarded as burdens that cause problems. Furthermore, the ideas of marriage reflect the societal view that women were evils, necessary only for producing heirs. This misogynistic outlook is apparent not just in poems featuring mortal women, but also goddesses of Olympus. While goddesses such as Athena and Demeter are regarded highly for their intellect and strength, they too were portrayed as simply vessels to produce offspring for the gods. However, it is true that not all women in Hesiodic literature are regarded negatively. The Muses, for example, were highly acclaimed for their beauty and skills in the arts. Invoked in nearly every poem, they are a vital part of the ancient Greek poetry. Aside from this, one of the only means of exercising power as a woman in this time have is through their beauty and deceptive nature. For example, Aphrodite, goddess of love and beauty, is also the goddess of deception. Because of this, she has the power to control the other gods and goddesses, giving her considerable power. This power of deceit is seen in many poems, including the famous works such as the Iliad. Therefore, while women are depicted as subordinate toShow MoreRelatedThe Theme of Hubris in Ancient Greek Mythology and Literature681 Words   |  3 PagesHubris is a very popular theme in Greek mythology. Hubris was a very important moral concept to the Greeks. Committing hubris was a very serious crime. Hubris is defined as having extreme pride or arrogance. Pride became hubris when it became all consuming or hurtful to others. Other actions that were seen as hubris were acting as if you were equal or more powerful than the gods, or trying to defy them. 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