Greek plays and the portrayal of women

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Alt Text: Image of the expressions that were used on masks in Greek plays 

Image Source: A Phuulish Fellow 

Greek plays are some of the most famous and revered in the theatre world for being among the first plays ever to be written, performed and even submitted for the Dionysia festival, which was the annual Greek theatre festival kept in honour of Dionysis, the God of wine and theatre. 

However, the portrayal of female characters in the plays are very restricted and domestic, very representative of the time that the plays were written in.

The Domestic Role 

Alt Text: Image of the play Antigone 

Image Source: Mythopedia 

Women in plays such as Antigone and Lysistrata were expected to be household creatures, ones that would restrict themselves to their house and the duties that were involved in the domestic quarters. So when they defied these norms and fought for their beliefs and freedom, it was seen as rebellion and breaking out of character. This was viewed by the members of society as the crumbling of the institution of family and the role of women in ancient Greek society. 

The Rebellion in her 

Alt Text: Image of a painting of Jocasta by Tara Hunter 

Image Source: Pixels 

Antigone, Lysistrata and Jocasta are rebellious, choosing to go against the rules in society, either to protect their family and honour the traditions of their ancestors or to prevent further chaos and damage inflicting their life and those around them.

Breaking the barriers 

Alt Text: Image of Greek Female philosophers

Image Source: The Collector 

In Spite of this, Greek women did manage to challenge the norms and gain powerful positions in society. Women like Sappo, the first female poet of Greece, Aspasia, who was a political advisor and Lysimache, who was the priestess of Athens were among the few who made significant contributions to ancient Greece.  Their contributions to Greek society were invaluable and they have made history with their contributions to the community. 

Conclusion 

Alt Text: Image of sculptures of Greek women 

Image Source: The Collector 

The plays written in ancient Greece were a mirror of society at the time. Women were confined to their house and to serve the men in the house. Even vases painted of her in her domestic quarters. The presence of columns suggested that they enjoyed spending time in the courtyard. 

However, women did go beyond these roles, shattering boundaries and creating a name for themselves. They found ways and methods to overcome the boundaries in ancient Greece, even though their rights and freedom still remained restricted.