We learned and discussed how each Venus reflected society and its values. The Willendorf Venus praised women’s fertility functions, and it was very important for their society at that time because it was necessary to have labor. But the Venus de Milo focused on the physical appearance of women; the delicate and elegant aspects of women’s physical bodies.
If so, what are the expectations of an ideal woman or man in our society in 2023? What qualities does our society value?
Sample solution
Dante Alighieri played a critical role in the literature world through his poem Divine Comedy that was written in the 14th century. The poem contains Inferno, Purgatorio, and Paradiso. The Inferno is a description of the nine circles of torment that are found on the earth. It depicts the realms of the people that have gone against the spiritual values and who, instead, have chosen bestial appetite, violence, or fraud and malice. The nine circles of hell are limbo, lust, gluttony, greed and wrath. Others are heresy, violence, fraud, and treachery. The purpose of this paper is to examine the Dante’s Inferno in the perspective of its portrayal of God’s image and the justification of hell.
In this epic poem, God is portrayed as a super being guilty of multiple weaknesses including being egotistic, unjust, and hypocritical. Dante, in this poem, depicts God as being more human than divine by challenging God’s omnipotence. Additionally, the manner in which Dante describes Hell is in full contradiction to the morals of God as written in the Bible. When god arranges Hell to flatter Himself, He commits egotism, a sin that is common among human beings (Cheney, 2016). The weakness is depicted in Limbo and on the Gate of Hell where, for instance, God sends those who do not worship Him to Hell. This implies that failure to worship Him is a sin.
God is also depicted as lacking justice in His actions thus removing the godly image. The injustice is portrayed by the manner in which the sodomites and opportunists are treated. The opportunists are subjected to banner chasing in their lives after death followed by being stung by insects and maggots. They are known to having done neither good nor bad during their lifetimes and, therefore, justice could have demanded that they be granted a neutral punishment having lived a neutral life. The sodomites are also punished unfairly by God when Brunetto Lattini is condemned to hell despite being a good leader (Babor, T. F., McGovern, T., & Robaina, K. (2017). While he commited sodomy, God chooses to ignore all the other good deeds that Brunetto did.
Finally, God is also portrayed as being hypocritical in His actions, a sin that further diminishes His godliness and makes Him more human. A case in point is when God condemns the sin of egotism and goes ahead to commit it repeatedly. Proverbs 29:23 states that “arrogance will bring your downfall, but if you are humble, you will be respected.” When Slattery condemns Dante’s human state as being weak, doubtful, and limited, he is proving God’s hypocrisy because He is also human (Verdicchio, 2015). The actions of God in Hell as portrayed by Dante are inconsistent with the Biblical literature. Both Dante and God are prone to making mistakes, something common among human beings thus making God more human.
To wrap it up, Dante portrays God is more human since He commits the same sins that humans commit: egotism, hypocrisy, and injustice. Hell is justified as being a destination for victims of the mistakes committed by God. The Hell is presented as being a totally different place as compared to what is written about it in the Bible. As a result, reading through the text gives an image of God who is prone to the very mistakes common to humans thus ripping Him off His lofty status of divine and, instead, making Him a mere human. Whether or not Dante did it intentionally is subject to debate but one thing is clear in the poem: the misconstrued notion of God is revealed to future generations.
References
Babor, T. F., McGovern, T., & Robaina, K. (2017). Dante’s inferno: Seven deadly sins in scientific publishing and how to avoid them. Addiction Science: A Guide for the Perplexed, 267.
Cheney, L. D. G. (2016). Illustrations for Dante’s Inferno: A Comparative Study of Sandro Botticelli, Giovanni Stradano, and Federico Zuccaro. Cultural and Religious Studies, 4(8), 487.
Verdicchio, M. (2015). Irony and Desire in Dante’s” Inferno” 27. Italica, 285-297.
Sample Answer
Sample Answer
Title: The Evolving Expectations of Ideal Men and Women in Contemporary Society
Introduction: In the ever-changing landscape of society, the expectations placed upon individuals have continuously evolved. The ideals of beauty, success, and personal qualities are subject to cultural, social, and historical influences. As we enter the year 2023, it is crucial to examine the expectations of an ideal woman or man in our society. This essay will explore the qualities and attributes that our society values in both men and women, highlighting the significant shifts that have occurred in recent years.
Thesis Statement: In 2023, society places a greater emphasis on individuality, inclusivity, and personal growth, challenging traditional gender roles and establishing new expectations for both men and women.
Body:
Breaking Gender Stereotypes:
Our society has witnessed a significant shift in breaking down traditional gender stereotypes. The expectations placed upon men and women are becoming more fluid and inclusive.
Men are no longer solely defined by notions of physical strength and emotional stoicism. Vulnerability, emotional intelligence, and nurturing qualities are now celebrated.
Women are not confined to domestic roles anymore. They are expected to excel in various domains, including careers, leadership positions, and personal aspirations.
Emphasis on Individuality:
In 2023, society values individuality more than ever before. Unique qualities, talents, and perspectives are celebrated, allowing individuals to express their authentic selves.
Rather than conforming to rigid societal norms, people are encouraged to embrace their differences and pursue their passions.
Both men and women are expected to cultivate their individuality, leading to a more diverse and inclusive society that thrives on diversity.
Focus on Personal Growth:
Our society places immense value on personal growth and self-improvement. Individuals are encouraged to continuously develop their skills, knowledge, and emotional intelligence.
Both men and women are expected to engage in lifelong learning, pursue personal goals, and contribute positively to their communities.
Traits such as adaptability, resilience, and a growth mindset are highly regarded in both genders.
Equality and Empathy:
The expectation for gender equality has gained significant momentum in recent years. Society values empathy, respect, and equal opportunities for men and women.
Gender roles are being challenged, allowing individuals to choose their own paths without fear of judgment or limitations based on their gender.
Both men and women are encouraged to support one another’s aspirations and collaborate towards a more egalitarian society.
Conclusion: In 2023, the expectations of an ideal man or woman have evolved significantly from traditional norms. Society now values individuality, inclusivity, personal growth, and empathy. Breaking free from rigid gender roles has allowed individuals to explore their unique qualities and talents without fear of societal judgment. As we move forward, it is essential to continue fostering a culture that celebrates diversity and empowers everyone to embrace their true selves.
