"The story as told in The Odyssey doesn't hold water. There are too many inconsistencies"
About this Quote
Margaret Atwood's assertion that "The story as informed in The Odyssey does not hold water. There are a lot of inconsistencies", provides a critical point of view on Homer's ancient legendary. Atwood is known for her sharp, often feminist lens, and her commentary recommends that while * The Odyssey * remains a cornerstone of Western literature, it is not without its flaws when inspected with a contemporary eye.
First, Atwood's remark hints at historic and narrative contradictions within the epic itself. * The Odyssey * was given orally before being committed to text, which can result in narrative disparity. With time and through translation, aspects of the story might not line up perfectly. Characters may act in ways that do not have continuity or particular plot developments may appear quickly dealt with.
Moreover, this quote may likewise reflect Atwood's scrutiny of character inspirations and societal standards provided in Homer's work. Atwood's writings frequently explore themes of power, gender, and authority, which can be juxtaposed against the conventional functions depicted in * The Odyssey *. Female characters, such as Penelope, are translucented a lens that glorifies commitment and passivity, whereas Atwood might argue these roles don't accurately show the complexities of women's experiences and firm.
Atwood's statement likewise opens up a broader discussion about how stories are analyzed or re-interpreted throughout time. Each generation brings its point of view and values when analyzing texts. What may have been appropriate myths or heroic actions in ancient Greek society might be considered as implausible or ethically questionable today.
In conclusion, Atwood challenges readers to analyze * The Odyssey * beyond its surface as a simple brave narrative. She motivates us to think about both its creative tradition and the potential disparities that emerge when the impressive is examined through modern viewpoints, allowing a richer understanding of literary classics in the context of developing social standards.
