Week 8 Post 2

     Dessa Mehan's study on the portrayal of women in Greek mythology brings to light the misogynistic values within the society that dawned the creation of Greek myth. Mehan says, "Fables reflected society and perpetuated societal relationships evident within the mythology" (8). The stories told were a beacon and an outlet for blatant sexism and hatred toward women. Women in this age of Greek society were given little independence. So, the men created myths displaying women as destructive, worthless and villainous when they demonstrated any sense of independence. 

    Within the myths, there were always double standards. Men who made irrational decisions were leaders, and women who did the same were deemed insane or monstrous or foolish. Male gods could fraternize with human women, and constantly did. When goddesses demonstrated the same behavior, they were shamed intensely for it. Myths display the notion of men becoming heroes for defeating, putting down or capturing women. It sets up the idea that men are 'saving' the world from women who they view as such burdens.