Similar to every other myth, the myth of Philomela provides imperishable truth to contemporary society by allowing individuals to explore, reflect, and express their self-image toward developing more civilized societies. Intrinsically, the myth of Philomela communicates invaluable wisdom concerning patriarchal greed, women’s agency, and the existence of an avenging higher power.
The myth empowers modern feminist thought on women’s agency, making the world a better place. Tereus kidnaps and rapes Philomela; and later cuts her tongue with a sword to prevent her from telling anyone (Cornell College, n.d.). Conceivably, through Tereus’ actions, the myth provides contemporary society with the imperishable truth that patriarchal systems feed males’ greed by denying women the right to make decisions. In addition, the myth echoes into the current society that women have a right to make decisions and live by them. When the king savagely cuts Philomela’s tongue, I immediately relate to the silent voices of women who seek attention in the modern world. The myth resonates with some women’s movements I have involved myself with, such as the “Me Too” campaign that exposed the cut tongue in contemporary society’s women. By having women exercise agency over matters of sex, the modern world is a finer place.
Moreover, the myth of Philomela urges women and individuals facing oppression in society to be hopeful that revenge ultimately comes from a higher power. Retrospectively speaking on my human experience, there are several occasions where I have had to believe that revenge is not the most appropriate route. Reflecting on the myth, I find that the essence of revenge belongs to a higher power that seeks to make the world a better place and a more civilized place. Unlike the oppressors, victims, such as the oppressed women in a misogynistic society, are called upon to act differently, believing that social justice can never come through revenge. Conversely, the oppressed are to trust in a higher power that avenges justly.
The myth of Philomela provides imperishable truths about how greed feeds the male-dominated systems at the expense of women and the need to believe in a higher power for social justice instead of revenge. The myth is a classic with modern-world feminism applicability through its overwhelming contempt for oppression. In addition, the myth contributes significantly to civilization by reminding contemporary society to believe in a higher power that rewards accordingly.
Reference
Cornell College. (n.d.). Part I: Summaries and interpretations of the ancient myths. Web.