Homer as A Feminist

I believe when it comes to Homer's epic poem, The Odyssey, his view point of women is more feminist then sexist. Athena, with her centralization in the novel, leads me to believe that Homer thought of woman as important contributions to society. This importance is expressed in many different parts of the book. During the battle between Odysseus and the suitors she appears, and the suitors call to her saying, " Mentor, never let Odysseus trick you into siding with him to fight against the suitors"(446). This shows how Athena was so valued that men were groveling at her (a women) knees for help. Homer also shows his feminist views at the very end of the epic when Athena commands Odysseus to stop all fighting. The Odyessy ends with her last commandments. This is relevant because it revels how she is so powerful that people fear her enough to stop fighting even when they are enraged.
Another example is when Calypso trapped Odysseus on her island. He was not allowed off the island until Calypso willed it so. Thus showing the reader how powerful a women can be when she is determined.
Now one may question, "Yes we know Athena was powerful, but then explain Penelope's general "house wife, pining for her husband" characterization". In my opinion Homer did not mean to characterize Penelope in a sexist manner but he just decided on giving her the characteristics to make the story, and Odysesus homecoming, seem more dramatic. Without the typical, "wife yearning for her husband" the plot would have less significance because being with his faithful wife is Odysseus's main drive. Homer shows us in more ways then one the significance of a women through the characters of Athena, Calypso, and Penelope. The women described were those of power, determination and honor making the reader perceive Homer as a writer unprejudiced to women.