Lysistrata--Another type?

With the character of Lysistrata, we have yet another woman, who, while she does certainly step outside the accepted norms of Greek women's behavior, uses another stereotypical feminine behavior to make her point. What is the final effect of the action of the play? Why does Lysistrata use "woman as sexual manipulator" to propose an end to the war? Does it make the men see women any differently? Based on this play (not on his life), what do you think Aristophanes thinks about women? I think it is interesting that he was highly critical of the war himself and makes some very salient points about the futility and irrationality of war though Lysistrata--but who hears them?

I read with great interest the discussion this week. Your comments are insightful and thought provoking. Make sure you take the time to go back and read the entire discussion even after you have posted your comments. That is just about my favorite thing to do!

From One Extreme to the Other

We have discussed two very different "types" of women in Antigone and Medea. You may not agree that they are types but that they are, indeed, two distinct women. However, can you argue that the playwrights are writing types.? How influential is this stereotyping in creating ideas about women? Why does that matter? You can also look at the difference between the anti-feminine speech of Creon in Antigone and the blatant misogyny of Jason in Medea.

For those new to this, I tend to ask a series of questions in an attempt to make you think about how to answer the first question. I can't help myself.

Can you hear me now?

I'd like you to reply to this just so I can see who is in the blog.