As far as motifs go the Amazons are not my go to stopper, though it was pleasant to read of them in a primary source. Most of my experience of them is from posthumous sources riddled with modernity and interpolation. Unlike the Amazons of say, the DC Universe, these Amazons have not a necessary problem cohabiting with men but with the loss of their independence, hence their identity. Though I don't see single gendered/sexed societies as a great source for studying the interaction between these two layers was interesting to see in this piece. It reminds me of the primordial story of the male children of Adam leaving the mountains and mixing with the women of the plains with music as their harbinger. In the case of the children of Adam's story the change was sinful yet permanent, whereas for the Amazons it was arguably the opposite. By this connecting thread I would number this section of the Histories as part of a primordial figment of imagination, and not unique as it may seem. I wonder whether Hesiod's Amazons are to remain in this state forevermore or whether an event will force them to integrate to the women of the established societies. There have always been Amazons, and probably there will always be, but are once Amazons always Amazons or is there fluidity in the role?

The reading I picked was The Histories'/Herodotos. The reason I picked this reading was because I wanted to learn more about the Amazons and how they were portrayed, as last time I did not read as deeply about them. 

A detail that jumped to me was reading that "The language of the Sauromatae is Scythian, but not spoken in its ancient purity, seeing that the Amazons never rightly learned it. In regard to marriage, it is the custom that no virgin weds till she has slain a man of the enemy, and some of them grow old and die unmarried, because they cannot fulfill the law." This is interesting because it enforces my viewpoint that women are always under this societal pressure to appease, and if they are unable to, they will be scrutinized and shamed. 

I think the author was trying to communicate in all of this the different gender expectations placed on women all throughout history, regardless of time frame. Something I'd like to find out about more is why women have continuously endured these conditions considering that it seems they have some power even in this society. Is it just human nature of a woman to be less confident? I've read about it, but it's hard to say a woman's nature always remains the same even through multiple time periods. 

The reading I picked was The Histories'/Herodotos. The reason I picked this reading was because I wanted to learn more about the Amazons and how they were portrayed, as last time I did not read as deeply about them. 

Which reading did you pick? If there’s a reason it interested you, what was it?

A detail that jumped to me was reading that "The language of the Sauromatae is Scythian, but not spoken in its ancient purity, seeing that the Amazons never rightly learned it. In regard to marriage, it is the custom that no virgin weds till she has slain a man of the enemy, and some of them grow old and die unmarried, because they cannot fulfill the law." This is interesting because it enforces my viewpoint that women are always under this societal pressure to appease, and if they are unable to, they will be scrutinized and shamed. 

I think the author was trying to communicate in all of this the different gender expectations placed on women all throughout history, regardless of time frame. Something I'd like to find out about more is why women have continuously endured these conditions considering that it seems they have some power even in this society. Is it just human nature of a woman to be less confident? I've read about it, but it's hard to say a woman's nature always remains the same even through multiple time periods. 

the reading I picked was "histories"/herodotos .One remarkable feature of Herodotus' "The Histories" is his approach of combining historical narration with cultural insights. His depictions of other peoples, their habits, and beliefs provide rich background that extends beyond individual occurrences. For example, his description of the Persian Empire's administrative organization and the varied modes of life across different nations emphasizes the breadth of human experience. This blend of history and anthropology encourages readers to consider how culture impacts historical events, a theme that runs throughout the book. Did any parts of the text stand out to you?Herodotus intended to convey the complexities of human experience via history, emphasizing that events are impacted not just by acts but also by the varied cultures and beliefs of those involved. He aimed to investigate topics of power, conflict, and the interaction of many communities, demonstrating how geography, tradition, and politics influence human behavior. By chronicling numerous rituals and practices, he emphasized the importance of context in historical narratives. His work is an early attempt at historical research, combining storytelling and analysis to express the richness of the past. What do you think of his approach?The writing also reflects a growing interest in foreign cultures and a desire to document and comprehend the world outside one's own borders. This was a period when Greek identity was emerging, frequently in opposition to the 'Other,' as represented by the Persians and other cultures. Furthermore, the combination of historical narrative with anecdotal observations reveals a new tradition of critical inquiry and the origins of historiography as a discipline.I'd love to learn more about how Herodotus' storytelling techniques inspired later historians. It would be particularly interesting to observe how his blending of narrative and cultural commentary influenced how history is written and perceived.

The document I picked for this week was, From the Histories by HEROTODOS. The reason I found it interesting is because it talks about various times were women break the barrier of gender roles and stand up for themselves. 

One passage that stands out is about Artemisia, the queen of Halicarnassus, during the battle at sea of Salamis. As she shows brilliance and great strategy skills by advising Xerxes not to engage to the Athenians and then she manages to turn the battle in her favor. She attacks a friendly ship to disguise herself as friendly to an Athenian ship that is following her, this allows her to escape. The author is trying to communicate how this woman shows courage and critical thinking skill by outthinking the rest of the men in her fleet. This document shows a crucial time in history where gender, power, and war came together in the ancient Mediterranean world, to survive and grow. I would like to know about other events were women takes the lead and use her wisdom. 

The reading I chose to pick was Eumenides by Aeschylos. This reading interested me because of the debate to justify what Orestes has done to his mother an immoral injustice or justified to avenge the death of his father. Te passage that jumped out at me as I read through it was where Athena in defense of Orestes defines how she is of an male and on the father’s side as her mother did not give birth to her. Her defining her masculinity in the rule of judgement to understand where Orestes is coming from of killing his mother. 

What I think the author was trying to communicate is to possibly challenge the readers of this time their morality.  With the question of Clytemnestra being murdered by her own son, was this an act of justice? Or was this an act of evil? I feel like challenging the reader’s morality to create a discussion within their own society of what is justified. Depending on the reader they can be on Orestes side where he did avenge his father’s death in someway but was also ordered to kill his mother or the reader can be on the side where what Orestes done was wrong no matter what the cause of doing was. 

The reading that I chose was from 'Eumenides'/Aeschylos. This reading interested me because it dove into the topic of old justice and new justice. For example, the details that stood out to me the most was how Athena and Apollo represented a new justice system, while the Chorus represented an older justice system. This justice system was more of a vengeance. I think the author was trying to communicate the evolution of the justice system and how the gods let mortals take more control over their communities/ society. Athena had decided to let the civilians decide what would happen with Orestes after he murdered his mother. However, in the end, she had the final say since it was ruled as 50/50. I would like to find out more about the types of trials that went on during this time.

For this week's response, I have chosen the play "Eumenides" by Aeschylos. I have chosen this particular reading due to how outlandish and demeaning it is to the women of Athens. The primary character, Oresteia, is haunted by the primordial beings known as the Furies after he kills his mother, Clytemnestra, for her killing her husband and Oresteia's father, the legendary King Agamemnon. The part that stood out to me is the god Apollo defending Oresteia, stating, "The mother of what is called her child is not the parent, but the nurse of the newly-sown embryo. The one who mounts is the parent, whereas she, as a stranger for a stranger, preserves the young plant, if the god does not harm it." This sentence alone shocked me when I had first read it. The women and mothers of Athens are not even regarded as parents to their children but only as people who birth and raise them. Not only had they played an almost non-existent role in the public space, but they were deemed inferior even the private.

In this week reading I chose “Eumenides” by Aeschylos. The reason I chose this reading because after learning about Agamemnon and Clytemnestra; you see how the furies decide to treat Oresteia when he was just following orders from Apollo, on how to handle his mother Clytemnestra.  There was multiple sentences that stood out to me like the furies questioning the Gods decision on killing Clytemnestra; the one that stood out to me the most was “The mother of what is called her child is not the parent, but the nurse of the newly-sown embryo.” Just that sentence alone you could see how Apollo view Clytemnestra as a “mother” and he wanted the furies and Athena to get his understanding on Oresteia action. In my opinion I think the author is trying to say how complex the justice system is. In my opinion this document seems like it comes from a time that if you commit a crime especially murdering your parents, the price you’ll pay is most likely death. I would love to learn more about the Greek justice system and learn more about the furies in other documents if possible. 

I picked the reading Aeschylus: from Eumenides. I liked this reading as I was particularly interested in the intense pursuit of Orestes by the Furies. I also like how they came together and held a trial, similar to what we do today to settle our disputes. The detail that jumped out at me was the ruling of the trial. Athena voted in favor of Orestes' life. I thought this was interesting as of course Athena, the Goddess of Wisdom would be the deciding vote. The author was trying to show the readers how justice was served through a structured trial. Instead of immediately acting violently, Athena had an organized trial to decide a fair outcome. Other stories depict acts of vengeance culminating in violence or death. The people of that time, as described in different stories, seemed to act irrationally, prioritizing action over reason and fairness. I’d like to read about other instances or situations where this justice system was used to settle a feud.

For this weeks Reading I choose Herotodos "The Histories" I picked the story of Candaules, Gyges, and the Lydian kingdom because it provides a fascinating glimpse into the dynamics of power, morality, and fate in ancient times. The passage that struck me most was when Candaules' wife confronts Gyges with the ultimatum: “You must either kill Candaules and take me for your own and the throne of Lydia, or yourself be killed.”It is shocking how quickly an apparently private encounter can turn into a dire political decision. The influence that women could hold in ancient courts despite their limited formal authority is also reflected in her cold and deliberate demand. It demonstrates her intelligence and resolve to uphold her honor and take command of the circumstance. Herodotus seemed to be delving into issues of honor, power, and fate. The moral of the story is that decisions, even ones made in private or out of conceit, can have Strong consequences. This document gives us insight into the culture of ancient Lydia and the broader Greek world. It reveals the values placed on honor, particularly in relation to women’s modesty, and how violations of social norms could lead to severe consequences. I would like to explore more about the historical context of Lydia during Candaules' reign.

For this week’s response I have chosen to analyze the primary source entitled “Aeschylus: from Eumenides” which follows the aftermath of the murder of Clytemnestra and the trial of her son, Orestes. In this story Orestes is being tormented by the Furies, a symbol of “old justice” because he murdered his mother, to redeem the death of his father with encouragement from the god Apollo.The story begins with Orestes being chased and tormented by the Furies so Orestes seeks refuge at Apollo’s shrine. Apollo, The Furies and Orestes decide that they will go to trial for the death of Clytemnestra with Athena acting as the ruling power over the trial. It is eventually decided by a jury that Orestes is “not guilty” and the story ends with the vengeful Furies becoming the kind Eumenidies. 

In the lines “Summon your witnesses and proofs, sworn evidence to support your case; and I will return when I have chosen the best of my citizens, for them to decide this matter truly, after they take an oath that they will pronounce no judgment contrary to justice. [Exit.] CHORUS [490] Here is the overturning of new laws, if the wrongful cause of this matricide is to triumph” the two opposing forms of justice are displayed. The monstrous and angry Furies seek to punish Orestes for the murder of his mother in the way they see fit, while Athena proposes a different way to deal with the issue at hand, her method being a trial with a jury. Though both parties see what they are doing as a viable form of justice, the “new” version of justice is shown to prevail. The Furies have a simple way of viewing things adopting the “eye for an eye” mentality in which the response to murder is murder, and vengeance is the same as justice whereas the trial proposed by Athena allows for more nuance to be taken into account. In these interactions we also see how the murder of a woman in comparison to the murder of a man is viewed, namely which crime is more severe which is directly connected to the gender of the murderer and the victim. I think that this story not only displays a shift in power and perception of justice through the trial but how gender and opinions of gender influence decision making.

Something I found the most interesting elements is the play’s portrayal of the shift from personal revenge to a structured legal system. This transition reflects broader societal changes in ancient Greece and raises important questions about justice, morality, and the role of law in human affairs.Something that jumped out at me was this line that Athena said...

Athena appeals to the Furies, saying something along the lines of:

"You are to be honored as guardians of this land, and I will grant you a place in the hearts of the people. No longer will you be feared; you will bring blessings instead of curses."

Some take aways that the author was trying to say was...

1. Reconciliation of old values and new values ( spoken briefly in class)The transformation of the Furies into the Eumenides symbolizes the reconciliation of ancient, primal forces of vengeance with new ideals of order and compassion. Aeschylus suggests that even the darkest aspects of human nature can be integrated into a more balanced and harmonious society. This reflects a belief in the potential for change and growth within individuals and communities.
2. Collective Responsibility -Aeschylus emphasizes the idea that justice is not just an individual concern but a communal one. The involvement of the citizens of Athens as jurors in Orestes' trial signifies the importance of collective input in matters of justice and the necessity of societal engagement in shaping moral values.

I would like to know More is the Modern Reinterpretations,Examining contemporary adaptations or interpretations of The Eumenides in theater, film, or literature could offer insights into how its themes remain relevant and are reimagined for modern audiences.

There is a part in the Histories that speaks about the Amazon women and the men who come to be with them. At one point the men ask the Amazons to come back to their homes with them and get married. The Amazon reply: “Nay, we could not dwell with your women; for we and they have not the same customs. We shoot with the bow and throw the javelin and ride, but the crafts of women we have never learned; and your women do none of the things whereof we speak, but abide in their waggons working at women’s crafts, and never go abroad a?hunting or for aught else. We and they therefore could never agree.” The Amazonian women are reluctant to come live among other women because they see them as domestic and docile creatures to which they have nothing in common. I think this is an interesting reply Herotodos records for the Amazons. If the Amazon cannot agree with woman because of their different interest how ae men and women ever supposed to agree. The Scythian men seemed to be in agreement with the Amazons, but the Amazons act in manly ways, following manly pursuits. When we have seen female figures have agency in public spaces so far it has been those who possess the qualities found desirable in men. One instance for Athena, a goddess who possess many male qualities, is in Eumenides when she comes to the defense of Orestes at his trial by the Furies. When Xerxes speaks of Artemisia’s deeds he says, “My men have become women, and my women men”. For women to be counted in the public arena they had to come in the likeness of attitude usually seen in men. The story of Candaules is also interesting in what it is trying to convey about women. Candaules’ pride progresses to the point of pompousness, and he insists his servant sees his wife naked. When she learns Gyges has seen her naked due to Candaules scheming she is angry, and her honor hs been wounded. She conspires with Gyges to kill Candaules and have him usurp him as ruler and husband. To kill a person who has offended your honor is a very manly thing to do. To conspire with a confidant of that person to kill him in his sleep and take his position is not an honorable thing to do. Canduales’ wife is shown using deception and blackmail to get what she wants. She does not possess a man’s strength to engage in the violence, so she uses her deceptive, deceitful womanly ways to corrupt an honorable man. This is a way in which many females are depicted by sources left from that time. 

I selected Herodotus's Histories, particularly the sections about the Amazons and Artemisia. What interested me most was how these stories challenge traditional gender norms, especially considering the patriarchal society of ancient Greece. Herodotus's focus on powerful women who assume roles typically reserved for men warriors and leaders stood out as especially unique, given that women in classical Athens and much of the ancient Greek world were usually confined to the domestic sphere. I think Herodotus was trying to communicate that leadership and strategic acumen are not confined by gender. Through the Amazons and Artemisia, Herodotus offers examples of women who defy the stereotypes of his time, suggesting that qualities like bravery, intelligence, and strength can transcend the boundaries imposed by society. 

This document tells us that ancient Greece, particularly Athens, had rigid gender roles, where women were expected to remain in domestic spaces, but other societies may have offered women more public and martial roles. I would like to learn more about how women in different ancient cultures lived, especially in contrast to the roles attributed to them in Herodotus’s accounts. How accurate were Herodotus’s depictions of the Amazons or Artemisia? Were there other women in ancient history who held similarly powerful roles, and how did their societies view them? Additionally, it would be interesting to see how these stories influenced later depictions of women in Western literature and history, especially in terms of the Amazon myth and how it evolved.

Gerineldo Solano

Aeschylos from Eumenides

Which reading did you pick? If there’s a reason it interested you, what was it?

I chose Eumenide, the final play in Aeschylus' trilogy The Oresteia, because it highlights the shift from personal vengeance to institutionalized justice, a pivotal transformation in ancient Greek society. The resolution of Orestes' trial, overseen by the goddess Athena, symbolizes the creation of legal courts, marking the transition from chaotic retribution to a more structured system of justice.

What passage or detail in particular jumped out at you as you read through it?

The passage that resonates with me is when Athena intervenes in Orestes' trial and establishes the court of the Areopagus. Her declaration, "the votes are equal, the defendant is acquitted," marks a moment of profound change. It's powerful because it underscores both the influence of divine authority and the significance of fair, impartial judgment in human affairs.

What do you think the author was trying to communicate?

Aeschylus seems to be communicating the necessity of moving beyond blood feuds and personal vengeance toward a more civil and organized form of justice. By portraying the gods as advocates for law and order, Aeschylus underscores the idea that a functional society must be based on rules that apply to everyone, rather than on emotions or revenge. Additionally, this could reflect a celebration of Athens' evolving democratic and legal institutions at the time the play was written.

In your opinion, what is this document telling us about the time and place it comes from?

The play mirrors a period in ancient Greece when the concept of justice was shifting from familial and tribal revenge to a more structured, civic legal system. In Athens, where Aeschylus wrote and staged his plays, democratic institutions—such as courts like the Areopagus—were taking shape. The focus on rational judgment and civic responsibility reflects the growing importance of these values in Athenian society at that time

What would you like to find out more about?

I’m interested in learning more about how the historical evolution of Athenian democracy and legal practices shaped Greek tragedy. I’d also like to examine the roles of women and goddesses like Athena in the establishment of justice and how divine authority was invoked to legitimize human laws. Furthermore, comparing the themes of justice in *Eumenides* with those found in other Greek literary works would enhance our understanding of how the Greeks viewed justice and morality.