I'm wondering if the drive to eradicate Sappho's writings arose not so much against her obvious female to female attraction but rather the rare intimation that women could respond sexually with the same intensity as men. Men surely recognize how immediate and strong their sexual desire can be triggered. Sometimes that desire can morph into aggression with less than desirable results. Imagine men being made aware that that same capacity for sexual immediacy and aggression resided in women. I'm guessing that that's a rather scary thought for them. A scary thought for the patriarchy in general. And not only was Sappho writing about it, women were being made aware also of it's potential. Made aware in poetry that dazzled in it's beauty. I think if I were a man in pre-Christian times or later, I would want to burn that stuff too.
Good article and Wikipedia focuses its comments on the same themes of literary innovation and sexual freedom. Somewhere in a (blessedly) long lifetime, I encountered, still recall, and for decades have found smug satisfaction in the report that she was also such a formidable intellect that statesmen traveled to her island to consult on matters of state.
Another piece of Queer history that could become a brilliant piece of theatre or televiion or cinema.
I'm wondering if the drive to eradicate Sappho's writings arose not so much against her obvious female to female attraction but rather the rare intimation that women could respond sexually with the same intensity as men. Men surely recognize how immediate and strong their sexual desire can be triggered. Sometimes that desire can morph into aggression with less than desirable results. Imagine men being made aware that that same capacity for sexual immediacy and aggression resided in women. I'm guessing that that's a rather scary thought for them. A scary thought for the patriarchy in general. And not only was Sappho writing about it, women were being made aware also of it's potential. Made aware in poetry that dazzled in it's beauty. I think if I were a man in pre-Christian times or later, I would want to burn that stuff too.
A powerful message about the power of authenticity and self awareness
Good article and Wikipedia focuses its comments on the same themes of literary innovation and sexual freedom. Somewhere in a (blessedly) long lifetime, I encountered, still recall, and for decades have found smug satisfaction in the report that she was also such a formidable intellect that statesmen traveled to her island to consult on matters of state.