22/6/2012
After re-reading Voyage of the Argo I have decided to use the words of Jason to begin my special study on the treachery of women in Greek epics. Upon needing Medea's assistance to acheive the impossible tasks set by King Aeetes in order for Jason to obtain the Golden Fleece, he informs his crew, "But oh, how bleak the prospect is, with our one hope of seeing home again in women's hands!" This quote epitimises the lack of trust the Argonauts have for Medea, however after experiencing the horrors of the murderous Lemnian women, they would have reason to be uneasy. I believe that this quote encompasses what my Special Study is aiming to acheive and below is a plan of how the essay shall be written:
How is the theme of the teachery of women explored in The Iliad, The Odyssey and The Argonautica?
Introduction
- address the theme of treachery of women
- explanation of the three epic novels being used
- address essay statement/question
Main Paragraphs
- Treatment of women in epic novels
- Medea
- Helen of Sparta
- Klytemnestra and the Lemnians
- Penelope
Conclusion
- summarising key points
- using evidence to answer statement/question
- personal opinion of statement/question
