Throughout Western history, enormous gender differences have been evident in both monotheistic and polytheistic cultures. Indeed, patriarchal hierarchies in both social systems have emphasized the superiority of the male sex; however, the uselessness of women in a monotheistic society is further emphasized. The fact that women in polytheistic worlds such as those found in The Odyssey and Medea are able to control more power than women in monotheistic civilizations such as those found in the Holy Bible and Beowulf suggests that the feminine image commanded greater respect and was more appreciated. in a polytheistic society. In many ways, this change in mentality can be attributed to the religious nature of the culture of the time. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essay The emphasis on female inferiority in a monotheistic society can be seen even in a henotheistic culture. Since henotheism is often considered a precursor to monotheism, it is useful to examine the conditions experienced by women in this type of society. “Genesis” describes a world based on patriarchy: it is a civilization based on the idea that the primary divinity is the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Women are rarely mentioned as having any power over men's decisions, because they only listen to the word of YHWH, and YHWH only speaks to men. For example, Lot presents his daughters to the men of Sodom as mere possessions: his daughters have no verbal or physical power. Another example is found in the account of Shehchem's rape of Dinah. It is unclear whether Dinah is upset by this event or wishes to take action against the offender; However, it is clear that the reprisals against the city of Hamor are the work of Dinah's brothers, who never mention that the motive is the rape itself. Dinah and her brothers are the children of Jacob and therefore constitute the chosen people. It seems that the presence of one God (YHWH) and his focus on the advancement of the patriarchs leaves women behind. The inferiority of women is only further emphasized in “Exodus,” which depicts an entirely monotheistic society. Although no actions involving women are described, it is clear from the Sermon on Mount Sinai that YHWH views women not only as property, but, more importantly, as incapable of exercising power. Married women are fed and clothed by their husbands (Exodus 21:10), and women who act as “witches” are condemned to die (Exodus 22:18). By worshiping a single God (who is clearly masculine), the female gender is relegated to the class of faithful servants of their male counterparts. Even in later writings, one of the “Church Fathers” (Tertullian) claims that women are the “devil's gate” and encourages their persecution under Christianity. Following the core tenets of monotheistic Christianity, Beowulf's warrior society again depicts women who have no substantial action in the story and only speak passionately when given retorts. Indeed, it seems that Welthow is simply another Hrothgar, in the sense that she can only reiterate all of the feelings that Hrothgar has just expressed. Once again, the view of women as mere objects of hospitality can be derived from the traditional Christian view: God clearly praises masculine values ​​in fighting, war, and strength. The only female character in Beowulf who actually exercises authority and control is Beowulf's mother.Grendel. Predictably, she is looked down upon for these characteristics, even though they would have been deemed acceptable if she had been a man. Furthermore, Grendel's mother (along with all the other females) "could not come with the strength of a man, to fight with the power and courage with which men fight, breaking their shining swords, their blades bloody hammer-forged ones on boar-headed helmets, slicing and stabbing with the sharpest points. It is clear that society places women in an inferior position, believing that they are not suited to the same tasks as men. Success in battle is attributed to God - as seen when Hrothgar thanks God for allowing Beowulf to achieve victory. God expects men, not women, to display these highly valued warrior attributes. Unlike monotheistic societies, cultures that believe in multiple gods offer a more powerful and respected image of women. Although women in these ancient polytheistic cultures were still widely viewed as creatures of evil intent, their increased level of influence demanded recognition. For example, the ancient Greek culture described by Homer deviates from that of a strictly patriarchal society. Although their importance on the battlefield was still highly appreciated, the fact that women played an important role in daily life was recognized. One explanation for the shift in gender treatment is that the culture relied on multiple aspects of life being controlled. by male and female gods. These gods are clearly assigned gender-specific responsibilities, such as Ares, the god of war, and Athena, the goddess of wisdom. Interestingly, Athena also represents war, but not to the same extent as Ares. With this overlap in duties, it is no wonder that both gods were worshiped, necessitating a reevaluation of current gender classifications. In polytheistic societies, all gods must be worshiped, regardless of gender. It was considered unwise to demean women, as any stranger could be a goddess in disguise. Furthermore, although women were still seen as having evil intentions, it was evident that they had far more power and influence over others than ever before. From the creation of this "accursed race of women" in Hesoid's Theogany to the wicked nature of Medea, women have always used their power for vile purposes. However, the Odyssey is full of stories of women with remarkable powers and respected for their judgment. Penelope shares many characteristics with Odysseus - intelligence, quick thinking, and reasoning, to name a few - and yet society does not view her qualities with the level of disdain found in "Genesis" or Beowulf. In fact, Penelope is well-liked by both her family and Athena. Helen, although considered very deceptive, is obviously blessed with the ability to drug those who cross her, and she uses this skill to her advantage. The question of whether the feminine spirit of independence and willingness to act is a desirable trait is not addressed, but it is certainly permissible and a powerful force in these Greek stories. It is not just mortal women who display increased influence in a polytheistic society. As the most powerful goddess in the Odyssey, Athena has the power to not only change the outcome of battles, but also to influence the decisions of Zeus. In the interest of saving Odysseus, Athena persuades Zeus to bring Odysseus home. Other goddesses of history,.