Women in Power: Classical Myths and Stories, from the Amazons to Cleopatra

by Edited by Stephanie McCarter
Women in Power: Classical Myths and Stories, from the Amazons to Cleopatra cover
Good Books rating 3.83
Anthologies (Multi-author)
Technical
  • ID: 3090
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9780525507888
  • Publisher: Penguin
  • Published: 2024-09-10
  • Reviews: 3

This anthology presents classical tales of powerful women from the Amazons to Cleopatra, written by men with a misogynistic perspective to highlight the dangers of female power. Despite their intent, these stories reveal admirable traits of resistance and challenge to male dominance, resonating with contemporary feminist discussions./n/nThe book delves into how these narratives, though meant to undermine women's authority, showcase their strength and defiance. From Dido's critique of patriarchal values to Boudicca's fight against injustice, these stories inspire new paths for female empowerment, illustrating a historical legacy of women in power.

Reviews
Wave of Nostalgia · 2024-11-27
inspiring 4.00

The anthology showcases ancient women who challenge male power structures by taking on traditionally male roles, offering a compelling narrative of female empowerment.

The reviewer finds the anthology fascinating as it portrays ancient women who defy traditional gender roles and challenge male dominance. By highlighting stories of women who command armies and exercise sexual agency, the book provides a powerful narrative of female empowerment. This perspective is seen as both inspiring and thought-provoking, encouraging readers to reconsider the historical roles of women in power.

Quick quotes

    In this fascinating anthology, ancient women threaten male power by stepping into the roles traditionally held by men.

    They command armies, exercise sexual agency, and defy the constraints of patriarchal societies.

    A compelling narrative of female empowerment.

Barnes & Noble · 2024-10-09
critical 3.00

The tales are seen as misogynistic, aiming to reinforce masculine authority by highlighting the consequences of women in power. This perspective challenges traditional interpretations of these myths.

The reviewer takes a critical stance on the myths presented in the book, interpreting them as tools to undermine female authority. They argue that these stories are designed to warn against women wielding power, which is a fascinating lens through which to view classical myths. This interpretation adds a layer of complexity to the discussion of female empowerment, suggesting that these ancient tales are not just stories but also reflections of societal fears and biases.

Quick quotes

    They are instead misogynistic tales that aim to shore up masculine authority by exposing the consequences when women rather than men wield it.

    In this fascinating anthology, ancient women threaten male power by stepping into the roles traditionally held by men.

    They command armies, exercise sexual agency, and defy the constraints of patriarchal societies.

Amazon Australia · 2024-10-09
positive 4.50

The book is recommended by Mary Beard and offers a unique collection of classical stories about women in power, from the Amazons to Cleopatra.

This review highlights the book's endorsement by Mary Beard, a respected historian, which adds credibility to its content. The focus on classical stories about powerful women, such as the Amazons and Cleopatra, is seen as both educational and empowering. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to bring these historical figures to life, making it a valuable read for those interested in history and female empowerment.

Quick quotes

    Recommended by Mary Beard as one of the BBC History Magazine's Books of the Year

    Classical stories about women who wield power, from the Amazons to Dido to Cleopatra.

    A valuable read for those interested in history and female empowerment.

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