24th Annual Student Research Conference
A Goddess in the Greek War Camp: Hera's Influence on the Trojan War
Lauren A. Milburn
Dr. Molly K. Herbert, Faculty Mentor
Throughout Classical literature authors such as Ovid, Hesiod, and Pausanias depict the Olympian goddess Hera as the jealous and vengeful Queen of the gods. In the Iliad , Homer challenges these portrayals by cultivating a dynamic and commanding heroine. Within his seemingly male dominated text, Homer asserts Hera's divine excellence by attesting to her autonomy as she aids the Greeks in securing victories during the Trojan War. In my paper I will explore the vital role Hera plays in Homer's work by examining Hera's battle prowess, her relationship with both the mortal and divine world, as well as her eradication of gender barriers. I will ultimately prove that Homer does not merely use Hera as a vehicle to propel the plot, but to establish the goddess as one of the most important players in his piece.
Keywords: Greek Religion, Homer, Trojan War, Gender Studies
Topic(s):Classics
Interdisciplinary
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 19-3
Location: MG 1000
Time: 10:00