How Did The Amazons Depiction Change Over Time?

  • 700 BCE

    Homer

    In the Iliad, the Amazons are first mentioned as powerful fighters in book 6 and later described as equal to men in battle in book 3. This connects to their portrayal in ancient Greek pottery, where they were often depicted as formidable opponents of Hercules under the name Andromache, meaning "Man-battler" in Greek.
  • 590 BCE

    Claiming their existence

    Cyrus the Great and Diodorus Siculusthat both claimede Alexander the Great had encountered female warriors in Eurasia describing the relationship between Alexander and the Amazon queen Thalestris.
  • 500 BCE

    Herodotus

    Herodotus
    the Amazons did not know how to use properly the rudder or the oars. In fact, they knew nothing at all of ships and sailing in general, while on the contrary, they mastered the craft of horse-riding as they used to travel long distances on horseback or when it was necessary on foot.
  • 500 BCE

    Idea Amazonians are better warriors than Males

    Furthermore, it can be also claimed that women who knew how to fight were dangerous and equal opponents to the male soldiers of Athens. Perhaps then, the persistent problem of Greek women’s oppression and their exclusion from combat could account for males’ insecurities and fear of losing to females in a battle, or perhaps losing control over the city.
  • 490 BCE

    Myth- Cutting Off Their Breast

    Amazons used to cut off their right breast for archery in order to aim and shoot with their bow more accurately. This significant statement was supported by the etymology of the Greek word “Amazon,” which is originated from the combination of the negative prefix “a” meaning “without” with the ancient Greek word “mazon” meaning “breast”
  • 450 BCE

    Global event (expansion of the Roman Empire)

    As Rome interacted with different cultures, like ancient Greece where the Amazon myth started, there might have been changes in how people viewed Amazons. These interactions could have influenced how Amazons were seen and portrayed over time.
  • 400 BCE

    Argonautica Orphica

    Argonautica Orphica
    Wrote about where the Amazonians were located in the northern regions of Asia Minor in Themiskyra. He reported that “real women lived the lives of Amazons in the vast territory stretching from the Black Sea to Central Asia, known as Scythia”
  • Civil Right Movement

    The civil rights movement affected the way Amazonians are now portrayed because it emphasised gender equality and women's empowerment.
    This movement inspired a reimagining of the Amazons as symbols of strength and equality, highlighting their power, bravery, and leadership.
  • Wonder Women

    Over time, the image of Amazons changed. Originally seen as fierce warriors in Greek mythology, they've evolved into modern icons like Wonder Woman. Unlike old portrayals, Wonder Woman represents strength, compassion, and justice, inspiring women globally. She keeps the spirit of the Amazons alive, showing that strength comes in many forms.
  • Feminsit ralleys

    The feminist rallies affected the way Amazonians are now portrayed because it emphasised gender equality and women's empowerment.
    This movement inspired a reimagining of the Amazons as symbols of strength and equality, highlighting their power, bravery, and leadership.