While searching for more history on the witch Medea, of whom the play The Hungry Woman is heavily based on, I came across an article discussing the origin of “magic” in Greek works, specifically related to the most powerful witches of the culture. The work opens by discussing the significance of Medea throughout literature, as well as her counterpart Circe, who attempted to ensnare Odysseus in The Odyssey. Both these women represent what could be called a femme fatale; they are renowned and feared for their power, and use both their sexuality and mastery over magic to gain a place in a world typically controlled by men.

The work discusses the fact that Circe’s use of magic, or pharamakon, is the first recorded use of magic by a female. In addition, this magic is seen with sexual connotations, as it enables Circe to have a “stable of men permanently attached to her side.” This then demonstrates that their is a fear of women and their sexuality, as the first time the power of magic is given to a woman, she uses it to capture men. This then shows an understanding of women as inherently sexual, especially magic users. This could be extrapolated to apply to Medea in The Hungry Woman, who has unique sexual appetites (being lesbian) in a world that decries her choices. In this way, one can note how views of women, especially those who have an inherent level of power, often frighten men, and can be seen as evil figures based on their intent. This then plays into the difference between a currandera or healer, and a witch. As Medea uses her magic for evil, like some women before her, she is classified as a witch, and not a healer.

One can therefore note the source material that The Hungry Woman draws from, as well as the ways in which is has influenced the character of Medea.

Works Cited:
Turkilsen, Debbie. “An Examination of Ancient Greek and Roman Witches Through Literature.”Academia.edu. Academia.edu. Web. 20 Feb 2014. <http://www.academia.edu/3672405/An_Examination_of_Ancient_Greek_and_Roman_Witches_throughout_Literature>.