#odypen

One of the ways Greek mythology spaces so often reduce stories (and I've mentioned it before) is the way a lot of people can't seem to realize how much more interesting things are when they aren't so straightforward and are more complicated. Is it not more interesting when you realize Clytemnestra killed Agamemnon for Iphigenia, yet still abused her other children? Is it not more interesting when you realize Penelope and Odysseus are the very foundation of why a traditional couple might be and yet still are somewhat equal despite it? I could name a million other examples.

Penelope who burns every relationship she has left all for Odysseus. Penelope who Clytemenstra despises for still loving her daughter's murderer. Penelope who has screamed again and again and again at Icarius and her brothers for even daring to bring up the idea that Odysseus might be dead. Penelope who refuses to see any of her family after they suggested she remarry, no matter the amount of times Icarius sends letter after letter in apology. Penelope who stops interacting with Ctimene after the latter remarries. Penelope who Telemachus despises for choosing a man who is long gone over everything, over their kingdom, over him. Penelope who has completely isolated herself all for the sake of clinging to a husband who everyone else believes has long died.