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Hymn To Demeter

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In the Homeric Hymn to Demeter, the role of arranged marriages are delved into with the story of Zeus willing his daughter, Persephone, to marry his brother Hades. This myth brings up a variety of issues revolving around the societal views of women in ancient Greece. Zeus’s ownership of his daughter, Persephone, definitely reflects upon the role women held when it came to their own marriage decision, or lack thereof. The Homeric Hymn to Demeter can be read as a charter myth since the details of the myth directly reflect upon the ancient Greek practice of arranged marriages.

While the Homeric Hymn to Demeter was published, arranged marriages were very prevalent in society. It was not a woman’s free choice to decide who she would marry. Similarly with mortals, Persephone …show more content…

Men were seen as dominant while women were seen as less- this narrative also plays through The Homeric Hymns. At this time in Greek society, women did not hold power and were not deemed important unless they were accompanied by a husband. Zeus's dominance over Persephone fits into this narrative well, but the power combination of Demeter and Persephone defy this assumption. Demeter, as the goddess of harvest, used her power to control the crops. “The earth did not send up any seed. Demeter, she with the beautiful garlands in her hair, kept them (the seeds) covered underground,” (The Homeric Hymns 306).The strength and determination of Demeter and Persephone collectively demonstrate helps to overthrow the male dominance in this myth. Crafting a deal with Zeus, Demeter and Persephone achieve their goal and finally reunite.

Throughout history, women have been used to gain power, please individuals, and finish trade deals- the Homeric Hymn to Demeter is absolutely no omission from this. Even though the portrayal of women in this myth are grim, it does bring light and legitimates the unfair power contrast between men and women of the

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