Narrative Authority as a Means of Claiming Personhood

By embodying the points of view of Penelope and the 12 maids in her subversive retelling of Homer's myth, the author illustrates how narrative authority over one's own story allows the individual to claim simultaneous ownership of her personhood. After centuries of having her story told for her, Penelope finally seizes narrative jurisdiction. Determined to clarify the events of her life on earth, she also works to inform the audience of her true motives and character. Though Odysseus is a longtime fabled hero, Penelope's account, told in her distinct voice and words, proves her to be of similar ilk.

Homer's epic story depicts the bravery of the famous seafaring adventurer, facing giants and foes, cavorting with maidens and goddesses. However, Odysseus's story leaves little room for his abandoned wife Penelope. While she is a mere side character in the Odyssey...