Communications in Humanities Research ISSN: 2753-7072
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Research Article

Stereotyping the Feminine in Greek Mythology: The Embodiment of Women’s Social Roles in Canonical Narrative

Quesheng ChenThe Barstow School of Ningbo Chuhan FangKinglee High School* Yixiao ZhangThe Experimental High School Attached to Beijing Normal University

* Corresponding author: [email protected]

Abstract

In this paper, we categorize famous female figures in Greek mythology based on three primary social identities: daughter, inamorata, and mother. Although these identities are meant to reflect most women's life trajectories, they appear as independent characteristics in Greek mythology. Consequently, the portrayal of female characters is often one-dimensional and shallow, lacking the entire growth curve that male characters receive in heroic epics. Moreover, female characters are often relegated to supporting roles, mirroring women's subservient positions in patriarchal societies.

Keywords: Stereotyping; Social role; Greek mythology; feminist perspective; stigmatization
Published: April 19, 2024
DOI: 10.54254/2753-7064/28/20230098
Volume: CHR Vol.28
pp. 76-86
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