Dissertation Chapter: Dystopian Deities: The Evolution of the Female Archetype: From Greek Mythology to The Hunger Games

Module: Dissertation (Level 6)

Abstract

This dissertation will explore the symbolic journey of Greek goddesses and mythical figures such as Daphne, Artemis and Athena to dystopian heroines like Katniss Everdeen, taking a feminist critical approach. The main aim of this dissertation is to show how Greek mythology has shaped contemporary, dystopian fiction. More precisely, how the creation of classical myths that are permeable in contemporary fiction and perception has influenced dystopian authors. The construct of the female figure has been generations in the making, yet by analysing the oppressed Daphne, the natural Artemis and the war-driven Athena, it is apparent that the multiple archetypal models of the Greek woman have influenced Suzanne Collins in her creation of the heroine Katniss Everdeen. The new model of woman, one that is often perceived as utopic, portrays a hopeful future for women rather than one that is reduced and marginalised to the periphery of society. Collins transforms the Greek myth in order to conceptualise the powerful and dominant female model of dystopia.