5 Questions
What was significant about Aristophanes' play 'Lysistrata' in terms of its protagonist?
It was the first Ancient Greek play to have a woman as its titular character
What was Lysistrata's master plan to restore peace between Athens and Sparta?
Persuade the women to withhold sex from their husbands
What was the typical requirement for women in the classical period when it came to performing transactions or business?
They almost always required a kyrios, or male guardian
In what way did Lysistrata challenge the traditional role of women in the classical period?
By taking a leading role in ending the Peloponnesian War
What distinguished Lysistrata's plan from the roles of female characters in Homer's works, The Odyssey and The Iliad?
Lysistrata was responsible for moving the action forward in the play
Study Notes
Lysistrata's Significance
- Lysistrata, the protagonist of Aristophanes' play, is a significant female character who challenges the traditional role of women in ancient Greece.
Master Plan for Peace
- Lysistrata's master plan to restore peace between Athens and Sparta involves a sex strike, where women refuse to have sex with their husbands until they agree to make peace.
Women's Roles in Classical Period
- In the classical period, women typically required a male guardian or relative to perform transactions or conduct business on their behalf.
Challenging Traditional Roles
- Lysistrata challenges the traditional role of women by taking on a leadership role and initiating a bold plan to bring about peace, which was unusual for women in ancient Greece.
Distinction from Homer's Works
- Lysistrata's plan differs from the roles of female characters in Homer's works, The Odyssey and The Iliad, as she is a proactive and autonomous character who drives the plot, unlike the passive female characters in Homer's works.
Test your knowledge of the comedic play "Lysistrata" by Aristophanes. Explore the plot, characters, and themes of this ancient Greek satire, and see how well you know the story of Lysistrata's unconventional plan to end the Peloponnesian War.
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