The ancient Greeks were one of many societies to create the Adiche like single story of women. But unlike in Lysistrata, it is able differentiate itself from this stereotype. Thus creating an embodiment of women's empowerment to become something more than a statistic. Most Greek tragedies are dominated by male heroes like that of Oedipus. But with Lysistrata it is the women who are the heroes. In this Greek Tragedy, the Pelopoessian War is currently happening all over Greece. To support the war efforts wives' husbands, sons, and brothers are sent to fight. Angered by the war, Lysistrata asks the women of different areas to come together and refuse to have sex with their husbands until they have declared peace. She questions them as to if they “Are you not sad your children's fathers go endlessly off soldiering afar In this plodding war?"(p33; line 132-136).Lysistrata also plans to take control of Akropolis with the help of the older women of Athens. Once all of the women agree, they take an oath and sacrifice a body of wine in the oath's honor.
The political cartoon shown is an illustration that corresponds to the empowerment of women. This modernized Rosie the riveter is shown in an army uniform as opposed to polka dotted bandana. For decades women weren't allowed to partake in combat in the American Armed Forced. Instead of holding the typical jobs away from the front lines, they now have the opportunity to fight in combat. Similarly, the women of Lysistrata are also standing on the front lines. They are on the front lines in the political field, voicing their opinions were it was unlike to be heard before; much like women fighting in combat. Despite occurring centuries between each other, Lysistrata and the idealism behind the political cartoon both use the same message to convey women's rights.
Rosie the riveter is an excellent modern example for the expansion of gender equality. She inspired women to take up jobs normally occupied by men to prove they are just as capable as men. Just like Lysistrata and her army of women are waging a form of war, women were given the confidence to excel far past their standard restrictions in society. Even while men today still do not hold women up to equal standards, women are still working their hardest to reach for equality among men.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI very much agree that Lysistrata is the opposite of Adiche's single-stories. While in many of Adiche's tales the characters are forced to conform to the living standards set by their society, Lysistrata and the other women decide to break those barriers. The updated version of Rosie The Riveter displayed with the words "We Can Do It!" help support the acts of the Greek Women. While they are looked down upon for holding a rebellion, they believe "[They] Can Do It!"
ReplyDeleteWay to incorporate Adichie's theory of the single story! I am a firm believer in bridging concepts perceived unrelated. In reference to you use of Rosie the Riveter, I duly commend you. Throughout history, she has been the figure head of the gender equality movement, and rightfully so. I mean, she's what instilled the bravery in my mother, and so many women alike, to pursue a term within the military. Overall, great post!
ReplyDeleteGood job of making a connection and comparison of Adiche's stories. I do agree that Lysistrata's character is different from those of Adiche's stories. The image you chose really represents the empowerment of women you are trying to express well. It has a lot to do with the play because like you said Lysistrata and her peers are trying to come to together and stop something they feel is wrong. These women just want to recognized for being more than housewives and making a positive impact on their society. Overall this was a good post and I agree with what you are saying through these connections.
ReplyDelete