Centuries of traditions have allowed men and women to define gender roles in society. Although some critics claim that gender roles do not exist today, others believe that they do. In society, men and women are defined by gender roles in all their activities and emotions. A doctor is typically played by a male while women raise children and cook for men. However, although still existing, these roles are less evident today but tend to have a similar meaning than in the past. In ancient Greece, women suffered great hardship. Currently, women work, vote and run for office. Compared to ancient Greece, these activities represent a phenomenal leap from being under the direct supervision of a male husband. In Greek society, the role of women was considered insignificant compared to that of Greek men. Women had very few rights, no space to express personal opinions and a very bleak future with few options for a better life. According to Moses Hades, professor of Greek studies, women in ancient Greek works are known for being the main characters and taking on the role of villain, victim, or heroine. In Euripides' Medea, Medea, the main character, plays all these roles. She portrays the heroine helping her husband get the Golden Fleece before their wedding, then portrays the victim betrayed by her husband, and finally the villain by killing her loved ones. Therefore, Euripides follows the standard format of a Greek tragedy. Ironically, Medea's actions are similar to those of a man when she takes charge of her marriage, living situation, and family life when she devises a plan to submerge her husband in grief. With this in mind, Medea had accepted her place in the world of men until... halfway through the paper... abandonment brings Medea into a state of beggarhood. He understands that he has no authority, money or power over anyone in the country. This leaves her helpless and desperate. Therefore, she devises a cunning plan that revolves around herself and re-establishes power and authority. Even in today's society, gender roles play a role in how people see the world. Although more important than gender roles are the emotions that antagonize the human psyche. Medea shows how jealousy can lead to revenge and influence bad decisions and ruin or even end lives. Ironically, the decision he makes to kill his children leaves Jason just as helpless as a Greek wife during this time. It takes away his opportunity to express his opinions, needs and desires. This reversal of traditional gender roles shows how gender roles are not a reliable way of viewing a society.