Research Paper on:
Aristophanes' 'Lysistrata': Feminism

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seem, serves to create a sense of gender dominion unlike anything of its time; indeed, the play effectively marks the point at which women were presented as both wise and  cunning. As Lysistrata so desperately asserts: "The nations fate is in our hands alone!" (Aristophanes query=1). Lysistrata is a celebration of gender,  with particular emphasis upon issues of feminism and patriarchal control. Indeed, Aristophanes portrays the necessity of feminism; not only are his writings a solid reflection of his personal sentiments  but so is the manner in which his lead character reflects the female reawakening. Thus is the case with her ongoing assertion that there is truly no separation of  the sexes in reality, short of the obvious physical differences; rather, her perpetual argument clearly makes the point that the female gender -- no matter how seemingly fragile and delicate  -- is indeed just as much an emotionally strong and self-reliant individual as her socially accepted male counterpart. Indeed, the road to female  freedom and self-expression has been paved with patriarchal intolerance and characteristic skepticism. "But what can women do thats sensible, or grand? Were good at putting make-up on, designer  clothes and wigs and necklaces, imported gowns and fancy lingerie!" (Aristophanes query=1). That women have been forced to prove their worthiness within the stringent boundaries of a male-dominated existence  speaks volumes about the inherent fortitude that comprises the female spirit. Lysistrata implies that the concept of feminism embodies a number of critical theories by which to better address  the various perspectives of interdisciplinary connection. As a means by which to establish a fundamental basis upon which women could be perceived within the myriad components of life, the