Labyrinth: An online journal published by the Classical Studies Department of the University of Waterloo, Issue 87 (2007)
Abstract
The Classical world has always been a source of many memorable historical and mythological figures who have played an important role in both ancient and modern societies. Many of these figures were not only respected in their own societies but are also greatly esteemed even in modern times. Although many such characters come to mind, the one who I admire the most is the mythological figure Penelope.
In Homer’s epic,The Odyssey, Penelope is the exceedingly patient and clever wife of the famous hero, Odysseus, and the mother of Telemachus. For nearly twenty years, she has been waiting for her husband to return from the Trojan War, all the while economically maintaining their estate on the island of Ithaca, and raising her son on her own. During this time, she had many suitors who persistently pursue her and take advantage of her husband’s absence. Although a wife in a male-dominated society, Penelope takes on the role of a female heroine and capably deals with those all-consuming suitors. A patient woman and a devoted wife, she displays exceptional intelligence and is able to control a situation without appearing to do so.
Lesley Roswell
Labyrinth: An online journal published by the Classical Studies Department of the University of Waterloo, Issue 87 (2007)
Abstract
The Classical world has always been a source of many memorable historical and mythological figures who have played an important role in both ancient and modern societies. Many of these figures were not only respected in their own societies but are also greatly esteemed even in modern times. Although many such characters come to mind, the one who I admire the most is the mythological figure Penelope.
In Homer’s epic, The Odyssey
, Penelope is the exceedingly patient and clever wife of the famous hero, Odysseus, and the mother of Telemachus. For nearly twenty years, she has been waiting for her husband to return from the Trojan War, all the while economically maintaining their estate on the island of Ithaca, and raising her son on her own. During this time, she had many suitors who persistently pursue her and take advantage of her husband’s absence. Although a wife in a male-dominated society, Penelope takes on the role of a female heroine and capably deals with those all-consuming suitors. A patient woman and a devoted wife, she displays exceptional intelligence and is able to control a situation without appearing to do so.
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