Double Standard in the Odyssey
The Odyssey has several examples of the double standard between men and women during Ancient Greek times. Even though this took place a long time ago it is also seen today. The so called battle of the sexes has been going on since the beginning of time.
In the odyssey the role of Odysseus is one of a wise, god like man that uses many tactics to make things work to his benefit. During the seven years with Calypso he used the idea that he was held prisoner then the idea from Homer says “since the nymph no longer pleased. In the nights, true, he’d sleep with her in the arching cave-he had no choice-unwilling lover alongside lover all too willing…But all his days he’d sit on the rocks and beaches, wrenching his heart with sobs and groans and anguish, gazing out over the barren sea through blinding tears. ” (Homer Book 5 line 170-175). This gives us the perspective that for a time he was enjoying himself on the island and not so much held against his will. This can be seen today, in that it is easier to blame things on others for our actions and take the easy way out by being with the fun person with no responsibility. Like the quote it proves that the new wears off and the heart is with the one you truly love.
When Calypso found out that Odysseus wanted to return home she used her trickery to compare herself to Penelope. She stated “But if you only knew, down deep, what pains are fated to fill your cup before you reach that shore, you’d stay right here, preside in our house with me and be immortal. Much as you long to see your wife, the one you pine for all your days…and yet I just might claim to be nothing less than she, neither in face nor figure. Hardly right, it is, for mortal woman to rival immortal goddess? How, in build? In beauty?”(Homer Book 5 line228-236) Since Calypso was a strong woman she was able to use her strengths to convince Odysseus to stay with her for seven years. In this time Greek men considered women only...