Human Life And Broader Nature - 865 Words

Gender roles have always existed to some extent throughout history, and it has been a stepping stone of human life and broader nature. In the Greek society women were not allowed to impede in politics or any matter other than their household work, yet the goddess of marriage and birth, Hera, defies all of the rules. Hera’s jealousy, trickery, and temper creates unwanted havoc, thus making her a significant character in The Iliad. Hera is an exceedingly determined goddess and will go to any lengths to get what she wants, which is helping the Greeks win. Her personality, as a whole, is very persuasive. She even convinced the goddess of love Aphrodite, who both are hostile towards each other, to help her out. My dear child,...will you do†¦show more content†¦Equipped with this symbol of femininity, Hera successfully seduces Zeus and distracts him long enough for the Greeks to triumph, though briefly, over the Trojans. Moreover, Hera tends to cast herself in the role of the dutiful and obedient wife as a defense mechanism when faced with Zeus’ rage. After the seduction incident, when Zeus threatens her with a harsh punishment for her scheme, Hera is quick to assure him that â€Å"I’d be the first to†¦ take your lead, Zeus, wherever you command, my king of the black cloud!†, despite Zeus having earlier referred to her as â€Å"uncontrollable† and treacherous, Hera acts her submissive role so convincingly that he quickly forgives her: he even promises to bring eventual victory to the Achaeans, which Hera had wanted all along. Hera is an immensely devious person she uses her words to influence those around her, which is a very gender-neutral talent which she masters. Hera, with her insightful position between her fellow goddesses, has a deep sense of understanding, and knows when to drop her plans or change them as needed, and this shrewd adaptability, focused on her unwavering support of the Achaeans, allows her to ultimately guide them to victory. When the gods start fighting amongst each other in Book 20, Hera manages to hold her own. Several times, she takes on the more masculine role of fighting in person, rather than