Lysistrata and Theatre

 Lysistrata and Theatre 

Aristophanes’ Lysistrata, an anti-war satire, contains vulgar and bawdy dialogue that is more amusing when performed. While reading this play, especially Huddleston’s version which includes more foul language than other translations, there is a possible sense of discomfort with the dialogue as well as the sexual themes. The phalluses that would be attached to their costumes create a personal sense of uneasiness. From a theatrical standpoint, they are a fun piece of the costume and are essential to the plot. Khanna’s take on visceral reactions can come into play here: the sense of discomfort can lead to conversation. This made me realize that I had to take a look at myself: why was I so uncomfortable with phallic images when all bodies should be celebrated? 

Another topic that can cause discomfort while reading the play was Aristophanes’ depiction of women. At face value, he is creating strong women that are able to disband a war with a sex strike. When you start to analyze, it is apparent that it can be questioned whether or not he was sexist. Looking at the dialogue and the time that this play was written, there are prevalent sexist themes that paint women as objects for men to lust over. The main character is a woman, and in a theatrical sense would be a great role to play, but there is debate over whether she is a strong character or a caricature. It is not clear what his intentions were— was he granting women power over war and men or was he joking about men leading so horribly that women had to take over?

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