Lysistrata Character Analysis

Lysistrata Character Analysis

1. Lysistrata

   • POWERFUL
     • Opening Scene - ability to command an audience
     • Some masculine, asexual characteristics
   • Frustrated
     • Independant woman struggling for power in oppressive patriarchal society
     • Refusal to accept her intended status in life
   • VISIONARY
     • Outward delivery of political speeches to audience
   • separated
     • Not driven by sexual drive thus separated from gender & society

2. Calonice

   • Ignorance, disinterest & naivety (contrast to Lysis)
   • Never seen fit to Question her purely asthetic role in society (conformist)
   • Sexual: constantly thinking of sex
   • Fickle, easily influenced
   • materialistic

3. Myrrhine

   • Flustered, constantly seems rushed
   • Awkward, nervous, doubtful

4. Lampito

   • Spartans in general more liberal; rippling muscles, slit skirts etc
   • Seems to challenge Lysistrata's power
     • Definite leader / influential
   • Straight talking, rational

5. Stratyllis

   • Strong leader in challenging chorus of old men
     • Stark contrast between violent leadership approach of her to LYSIS
   • Impulisve, actions are extreme and unpredictable