According to The Odyssey, it would be much more correct to say Homer was an early feminist than a sexist as the women in the story play a very crucial role. Telemachus, for example, would never have found the courage to set sail in search for his father had Athena not showed up and inspired him to go. Were it not for Athena, Telemachus would likely have moped at home until the suitors had licked his house of treasures dry. Athena is also the one who convinces Zeus to order the goddess Calypso to set Odyssius free. These examples are two of the many that show that anyone reading Homer's The Odyssey could not come to the conclusion that Homer did not appreciate the importance of women.
Homer in his book also delves into the power, intellect, and charm of women. The goddess Calypso is powerful over Odyssius because he is held captive by her and can only be released by her will. The wife of Odyssius, Penelope, is an example of the cleverness that women have. She was able to keep the suitors at bay for a year by telling them that she would marry once she finished weaving, but every night, she would unravel everything she had woven. Penelope also demonstrates the charm of women. Many powerful men of Ithica were determined to marry her. These women used in The Odyssey are figures of strength, cleverness, and beauty, so clearly Homer could not have been a sexist.p
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I defiantly agree with what you have to say. In my opinion Hector shows many more feminist views then sexist views. Without Athena Odysseus would most likely had a hard time accomplishing his goals, thus revealing Homer's thoughts on the importance of women and their power.
Like it! Except for this one line ..."Homer's The Odyssey could not come to the conclusion that Homer did not appreciate the importance of women." it's very clear, the examples are good, and though only Athena is glorified in the first paragraph, the second does a good job of showing quantity as the first paragraph had done quality. You've convinced me, Narah-- Homer is no sexist! And I like your picture and its title :)
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