Great Books Ep 30: The Odyssey Book 2: Dowry: A Cultural Tradition That Has No Place in the Modern World

The practice of dowry has been around for centuries. It perpetuates gender inequality and puts a lot of financial strain on the bride's family.

“My father is abroad and we do not know whether he is alive or dead. It will be hard on me if I have to pay Icarius the large sum which I must give him if I insist on sending his daughter back to him.”

~ The Odyssey - Book II (Samuel Butler Translation. p189)

Brief Summary - The Odyssey - Book II

Telemachus calls for an assembly and addresses all the suito…