Penelope's Role In The Odyssey

Lily Yezdanian Ms. Sandt English I Honors 10 April, 2024 The Odyssey Essay: An Analysis of Penelope’s Role in Society

Literature often asks the quintessential question of what it means to be an ideal woman. The answer to this question varies greatly depending on which society is being studied and what qualities they value. Homer’s epic poem, The Odyssey tells the story of Odysseus’ twenty year long journey home, where he is faced with extreme adversity and learns many important lessons. Although not present for the majority of the story, his wife, Penelope plays a crucial role in the poem, as she is the essence of what the Ancient Greeks value, especially in a woman, and wives Through her loyalty, wisdom and independence, Penelope serves as

Although she is surrounded by suitors and has likely grown very lonely, she never gives in to temptation. Upon her husband’s return, she proceeds very cautiously, as she will never accept the proposal of a man other than Odysseus. She tells him “I have no strength left to evade a marriage and cannot find a way.”(Homer 1343). This is an example of Penelope displaying loyalty, showing great respect for her husband as well as extreme willpower. Not only does her loyalty cause her to wait for Odysseus, but she develops a sense of caution. This cautious nature is not rooted in a place of distrust, yet in a place of loyalty and true love for her husband. These qualities are not only admirable, but they are inspirational and should serve as a guide for readers. Penelope is created as an ideal woman that models the qualities that other Greek women are encouraged to possess. Ancient Greeks valued loyalty, especially in relationships – wives were expected to be obedient and dedicated to their husbands. Additionally, Penelope’s loyalty is highlighted in comparison to Odysseus. As previously

Penelope’s witty and wise nature can be characterized through her ability to devise a useful and successful plan that fools the suitors. One prime example of this is that she unravels her weaving for years in order to delay her remarriage, stating, “let me finish my weaving before I marry or else my thread would have been spun in vain”( Homer 1332). Penelope is a very intelligent woman, which she is able to use to her benefit. Her plans often require high level thinking and ideas that one would likely not inherently think of. Intelligence was one of the highest regarded qualities that one could have in Ancient Greece, as wisdom was ingrained in everyday society through literature, art, philosophy and more. It makes a woman especially respectable to have a sense of wisdom. Additionally, Penelope’s wisdom is displayed through her proposal for the archery contest. Upon Odyseeus return, disguised as a beggar, she retrieves his backstring bow that only he is capable of using, in order to determine if it is truly him. The brutal challenge is described as saying “While he had arrows he aimed and shot and every shot brought down one of his huddling enemies” (Homer 1522-1524). This example shows Penelope’s clever nature, as this plan requires a significant amount of thought. First of all, Penelope was wise enough to recognize her husband, but her intelligence led her away from