The Ancients
Cassandra: Priestess of Troy
Apr 13, 2025
Emily Hauser, an author and historian from the University of Exeter, discusses the tragic figure of Cassandra, the prophetess of Troy, cursed to tell the truth but never be believed. The conversation dives into the timeless nature of her story, examining her portrayal in Homer's epics and how it reflects themes of misogyny and women's voices in ancient literature. They also explore Cassandra's prophecies, the interplay between mythology and history, and her legacy as a symbol of resistance against patriarchy.
45:07
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Cassandra's story illustrates the tragic consequences of women's voices being disregarded, emphasizing the importance of believing and listening to their warnings.
- The evolution of Cassandra's narrative reflects modern feminist interpretations, showcasing her as a symbol of resistance against patriarchal norms.
Deep dives
The Tragic Figure of Cassandra
Cassandra is remembered as a tragic figure of Greek mythology, cursed by the god Apollo to foretell the fall of Troy while never being believed. Her curse manifested after she rejected Apollo's advances, leading to the haunting reality where her warnings went unheeded, ultimately contributing to her and her city's demise. This narrative highlights the broader themes of the consequences of not listening to women's voices and prophecies. The significance of her character is rooted in the complexities of gender dynamics within mythology, where her foresight symbolizes both power and victimhood in a patriarchal society.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
