Examples Of Patriarchy In The Iliad

In the Iliad, patriarchy is the only social system. The women of Iliad are typically valued off what is viewed as alluring. Women who are more arete have a higher value placed upon them. They then become a form of a trophy, and a viewed as more of a prize. Although, many women where cared for by the men in this myth as individuals, they were often won as a trophy. They are described as a prize of honor, and have to become enslaved to the man who's actions, or wealth is able to purchase her. In a way they are viewed as a high valued property. Because of this view placed upon women, I don't believe Helen was the root cause behind the war. Although, Helen went with Paris willingly, it was because of Aphrodite's power over her. Helen was viewed
as the most beautiful women in the world, she was seen as the ultimate prize. A woman with high value, whom brought honor and the appearance of substancial power. The allusion of this power is what caused the war. I believe Paris, and Aphrodite knew their actions would cause potential problems with King Menelaus. They easily stole not only his wife, but the illusion that he was untouchable. This could be viewed as threatening to one of the Kings, and he probably wanted to prove he was not weak, and would not be easily taken advantage of by Paris. Paris' mother had a dream that he would cause the destruction of Troy, and he did.