It is hard to find a man who is really strong. Strong enough not to desire to be stronger than you.
-- Leda (chapter 3)

Importance: Leda says this to Clytemnestra before her wedding to Tantalus. It is both advice and a warning about the tendency for men to desire power over women to affirm their own beliefs of their own superiority. In this quote, Leda equates true male strength to a lack of this desire for power over women.

We are taught that marriage is the end of fun and childhood, but it is just the same. Nothing changes much in your life... It is one of those things men say to make sure we feel responsible, while they can be children forever.
-- Penelope (chapter 5)

Importance: Penelope says this to Clytemnestra before her wedding to Tantalus. Penelope is described as the "clever cousin" and this analysis of gender relations aids in this characterization. Penelope's words illustrate a...