Women in Ancient Myth
Monstrous like Medusa, beautiful like Aphrodite, faithful like Penelope - many women in ancient mythology are primarily known for their stereotypical female roles. In its new special exhibition, the Collection of Classical Antiquities takes a different look at the goddesses and heroines.
Image gallery
Ancient mythology continues to fascinate today.
For example, retellings of the stories of mythological women in novels for young people and adults are currently popular. The predominantly female authors give the mythical female figures their own voice.
This creates a change of perspective on stories that have so far mainly been handed down by authors from the male-dominated ancient society. The interpretation of ancient objects is thus always dependent on our own perspective.
The special exhibition deliberately approaches its female protagonists from two perspectives: the ancient and the modern.
Twelve female figures take centre stage, from the most famous goddesses such as Aphrodite to lesser-known heroines such as Atalante. Life-size statues, detailed vase paintings and small pieces of jewellery show how these women were portrayed in antiquity and what stories their images tell.
The images and myths are viewed against the background of the ancient world. They were created in a fundamentally binary and male-dominated society with corresponding role models. For women, this often meant subordination. However, the mythological female figures only partially adhered to these norms.
The exhibition explores the categorisation of famous female figures in antiquity in three thematic areas. Which were perceived as 'role models' and why? Some behaved 'as they should' and epitomised fidelity, modesty and fertility. But three of the most revered goddesses - Athena, Aphrodite and Artemis - each in their own way transgress certain normative boundaries and are apparently not subject to them. What does it mean when the naked 'goddess of love' Aphrodite carries a sword? However, if the women act too far beyond female role norms, they become negative counter-images of social behaviour.
In addition to the ancient objects, the exhibition also presents historical and contemporary perspectives. "Goddesses and Wives" provides a contemporary look at a number of women in myth.
Additional information
Attention! changed opening hours from 16 April 2024:
- Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays
- Wednesday to Friday from 10 am to 5 pm
- Saturday and Sunday 10 am to 6 pm
