This dissertation was written as part of the MA in Black Sea cultural Studies at the International Hellenic University. The aim of this paper is to analyze the different variations and the most predominant versions of the myth of the Amazons and to present
the basic mythological references of these wild warriors. Additionally, the individual
mythological facts are described and the most famous figures of the Amazons are highlighted. The individual characteristics that are
presented
bring
into
negotiation the different aspects concerning the social, cultural and historical dimensions of the myth.
This paper searches the reasons why this myth was created and why it became part of
the Greek mythology
and
determines the value of the myth in general. It also presents
clearly both the mythological status of the Amazons based on literary sources
and
the
particular features of their existence in a wider context. On a second level
,
the figure
of the Amazons is approached as a social and political phenomenon of the classical period and especially of the Athenian society. It
examines
the contribution of the social
stereotypes of the era to the formation of the myth
and
the relationship with the xenophobic climate against the Persians. Finally
,
an indicative research between the myth
and the depiction in art is attempted by analyzing their differences, their similarities
and to what extend the art influenced the myth’s evolution.
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