Phye Historical Figure Nationality: Athens Religion: Polytheism Turtledove Appearances: "Goddess for a Day" POD: Set in OTL Type of Appearance: Direct POV

According to Herodotus, Phye was the name of a young woman who dressed as the goddess Athena and rode with Peisistratos into Athens. The people of Athens believed Athena supported Peisistratos' bid for the office of tyrant.

Phye in "Goddess for a Day" Edit

Phye was the daughter of a farmer in Ancient Greece. She was a tall young woman, and physically imposing, traits which made her an ideal candidate for Peisistratos' plan to reclaim his position as tyranos of Athens. Phye agreed to play the part of the goddess Athena and ride into Athens with Peisistratos, while publically granting him "divine" patronage.^[1] After Phye convinced the people, a raucous celebration erupted.^[2] Phye was sent to the temple on the Akropolis, with Peisistratos' promise that he would bring her more conventional clothing so she could leave.^[3]

While in the temple, Phye heard another person playing the flutes. Pursuing the sound, Phye discovered a satyr named Marsyas. Marsyas also believed that Phye was Athena, claiming Athena had given him his flutes. Marsyas sought sexual intercourse with Phye, with or without her consent. Phye responded by kneeing Marsyas in the groin, while still wearing her armor. She then kicked Marsyas in the buttocks to send him on his way.^[4] As she did this, Phye thought she heard a voice say "That was well done."^[5]

A little while later, someone finally arrived to give Phye her clothes.^[6]

Literary Comment Edit

Phye's role in history (if she even existed; Herodotus should not be taken at face value) is limited to Peisistratos' ruse. No other information about her is recorded.

ReferencesEdit