After reading the play, Lysistrata, by Aristophanes, I first thought about how far-fetched this story line is. Never before have I read anything that involved so much turmoil, especially since Aristophanes is known to be a comedic playwright. Around 411 B.C., when this play was written, women were held powerless in society. A woman having the same amount of control during that time as the women play was unheard of. However, as radical as this play seems, it can also be argued that Aristophanes is supporting normal conservative values.
             The play takes place in Greece around 400 B.C. during the historical Peloponnesian Wars. Focusing on war rather than culture, the Spartans have the upper hand before the war even starts. Athenians however, believe in democracy, which is a culture ruled by the people. Eventually, the downfall of is brought about by Spartas defeat of Athens.
             Lysistrata, an Athenian woman, decides to lead a revolt against the war. She leads the women of Athens and Sparta, taking matters into her own hands, to force the men to stop the war. The women hold a private meeting so the men will not suspect anything, and to allow Lysistrata to illustrate her scheme to her followers. "We must abstain-each-from the joys of Love"(ll 131-132). According to Lysistrata, every wife and mistress is to refuse sex, no matter what, until all the men have agreed to terms of peace. Lysistrata assures the women that they will eventually receive their reward, which is the ending of the war. At first, the women refuse. "Ask anything but this. Why, if needs be, I'd walk through fire: only, not give up Love. There's nothing like it, dear Lysistrata." (ll 142-144). But, after some persuading, Lysistrata convinces the women to go along with her plan. The first step is to take over the Acropolis. As the women accomplish their goal, the men that were to old to fight try to deal with
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