Since the beginning of human civilization, women have often occupied inferior roles in society while the dominant role has been played by men. In Homer's Odyssey, gender roles in Greek society are highlighted, showing how men controlled society while women were underestimated and constantly disrespected. Although it can be argued that Homer presents rather feminist views, several elements clearly show that The Odyssey is a misogynistic text. First, the women of the Odyssey were continually oppressed by men who never had true free will. Additionally, women were depicted as symbols of lust, seduction, and evil that destroy men and undermine women's true values. Additionally, women were expected to remain loyal to men while men had no expectations of themselves, furthering gender inequality. Illustrated by these three elements, it is obvious that The Odyssey is a misogynistic text describing a society in which women occupy servile and inferior positions. The Odyssey illustrates a society organized and controlled by men where men systematically treated women unequally, denying them true freedom. Homer's male characters often viewed women as second-hand citizens who had no real voice in society. An example of a woman oppressed by men in the text is Penelope, the wife of Odysseus. Although Penelope is Queen of Ithaca, her power in the kingdom is limited. His life is controlled by his son Telemachus and the Achaean suitors who have taken advantage of the kingdom for several years. At one point in the text, Telemachus says to his mother: “Words are for men, for everyone, especially for me; for the power within this house rests here” (Homer, 7). This shows how men saw themselves as the ones with power over society as they...... middle of paper ... tested Odysseus to make sure it was him as she "feared that a man doesn't come and cheat on her." ] with her story” (Homer, 226), showing how truly faithful she is to Odysseus. Although Odysseus was unfaithful, his actions have no consequences because he is a man, but for women who have been unfaithful, we can see how they are punished by men. In the case of Odysseus' maids, they were "unworthy" because they slept with the suitors and, as punishment, Telemachus said: "Without an honorable death [their lives will not be taken from them]" (Homer, 220). The difference in expectations between men and women regarding loyalty promotes gender inequality, making the Odyssey's views on society rather misogynistic. Homer endorsed the dominant belief of his time regarding women by treating female characters unequally and differently from men. characters from The Odyssey