Though they were divine and powerful deities throughout ancient history, Greek mythology has reflected society’s views on women. Athena, Aphrodite, and Hera, these goddesses have represented beauty, motherhood, and wisdom. However, old cultures have described what it was like to be a woman and how men controlled them. These myths and stories show that even wise and divine women could not escape gender expectations and double standards that shaped ancient Greek society.

What do I mean by a Feminist Revaluation? I mean, by looking at these stories through a modern, present-day lens. We can also examine these goddesses more closely by asking key questions that help us understand the women, especially the goddesses. during their time period. Were they really powerful and influential, or were their strengths limited because of men’s superiority? 

Athena was powerful and could lead an army, Hera had political power, and Aphrodite could attract anyone with her looks. However, they didn’t have complete power; they were often punished and manipulated by Greek gods. For example, male gods often had relationships with mortals, but goddesses who did so were punished and shamed. There was always a double standard. 

Hera ruled beside Zeus. She is known for representing marriage and family. However, she is seen as a bad guy because of her jealousy towards Zeus and their children. The myths made her seem cruel instead of justifying her anger and understanding her feelings from her point of view. In today’s world, women would be “doing too much” and be called emotional.

Aphrodite, the goddess of beauty, had a different kind of influence. Her beauty was a blessing and a curse. She could make anyone fall in love with her, but she is seen as dangerous. For example, many people say her beauty was the reason the Trojan War happened. As if she, an individual woman, was responsible for men going to war and their actions. Her beauty was often judged by male standards, which is seen in her story frequently.

Across these myths, there is a frequent theme: No matter how divine, or smart, or how beautiful you were, women were picked out to be the bad person and to stay within their limits, or else they would be punished. Reevaluating these goddesses and looking at the myths reminds us that women back then were struggling against systems that are supposed to define them, and unfortunately still happens in today’s world.