Margaret Atwood's Penelopiad

Definition

Margaret Atwood's Penelopiad is a retelling of the story of Penelope, the wife of Odysseus, from Homer's Odyssey. This novel shifts the focus from Odysseus's heroic journey to Penelope's perspective, showcasing her strength, intelligence, and the challenges she faced during his long absence. By giving voice to a traditionally silent character, Atwood explores themes of gender, power dynamics, and the complexities of female experience in a male-dominated narrative.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Penelopiad presents Penelope as a more active character who uses her wit and cunning to survive during Odysseus's absence.
2. Atwood employs a blend of traditional narrative with modern commentary, using an accessible tone that resonates with contemporary readers.
3. The novel also features the voices of the twelve maids who were executed upon Odysseus's return, adding depth to themes of injustice and power.
4. Atwood critiques the patriarchal society depicted in the Odyssey by reexamining how female characters are portrayed and valued.
5. Penelopiad encourages readers to question established narratives and consider the perspectives of those who have historically been marginalized.

Review Questions

• How does Atwood's Penelopiad reinterpret the character of Penelope compared to her depiction in Homer's Odyssey?
  • Atwood's Penelopiad reinterprets Penelope as a proactive and complex character, contrasting with her more passive portrayal in Homer's Odyssey. In this retelling, Penelope is not just waiting for Odysseus; she actively manages her household and navigates the challenges posed by suitors. Atwood emphasizes her intelligence and strength, showcasing how Penelope uses cleverness and resilience to cope with her husband's prolonged absence.
• Discuss the significance of the twelve maids' voices in Penelopiad and how they contribute to the overall themes of the narrative.
  • The inclusion of the twelve maids' voices in Penelopiad serves to highlight themes of injustice and power dynamics within the context of gender relations. Their tragic fates—executed on Odysseus's orders—bring attention to the harsh realities faced by women in both mythological and contemporary societies. By giving these characters a platform, Atwood challenges readers to confront the societal norms that lead to their marginalization and victimization.
• Evaluate how Margaret Atwood's use of mythological retelling in Penelopiad reflects broader feminist literary movements.
  • Atwood's Penelopiad exemplifies broader feminist literary movements by subverting traditional narratives that often silence female voices. By retelling Penelope's story from her perspective, Atwood critiques patriarchal structures within both the original myth and contemporary society. This approach not only amplifies women's experiences but also encourages a reexamination of established literary canon, pushing readers to acknowledge and embrace diverse narratives that challenge gender norms.

Related terms

Odyssey: An ancient Greek epic poem attributed to Homer that narrates the adventures of Odysseus as he attempts to return home after the Trojan War.

Feminist Literature: A genre of literature that seeks to highlight women's experiences and challenges traditional gender roles, often advocating for women's rights and equality.

Mythological Retelling: A literary practice where classic myths and stories are reinterpreted or reimagined, often providing new perspectives or insights into familiar narratives.