Frequently, we witness JD Vance challenging women to embrace motherhood or opposing federal protections for same-sex and interracial unions. With a high opinion of himself, he tends to belittle dissenters. Thus, it’s intriguing to note that his spouse, Usha Vance, has been observed engaged with The Iliad.
In an effort to present the Vance couple as a quintessential and relatable pair, rather than two individuals attempting to infringe upon the rights of Americans, some media outlets are shining a light on Usha Vance’s reading choices. While she isn’t her husband’s echo, she stands by him with a supportive demeanor, even as he expresses his misogynistic views on the campaign trail! The reason Usha Vance is seen with The Iliad and The Odyssey during these events is due to their son Ewan’s fascination with mythology and its narratives.
She shared with NBC News that her son’s fascination with Homeric tales prompted her to acquire a copy. “Our now-7-year-old developed an obsession with mythology this spring,” she explained after being spotted with the texts. “He found a children’s version of The Odyssey, then The Iliad, and became utterly captivated. To keep up with him, I felt it was time to delve into The Iliad myself.”
Currently, their son possesses a children’s edition. I can only imagine it doesn’t include the themes of infidelity or the complexities surrounding gay relationships found in the original texts. It’s peculiar, however, that this version spans 800 pages. As indicated by The Independent, most editions of both The Iliad and the Odyssey comprise roughly 400 to 750 pages, variable with the translation.
It certainly raises questions about what aspects of Greek mythology they choose to exclude from their child’s education.
This does not enhance their “relatability”
Most individuals experience a phase immersed in mythology, be it Greek or Norse. Yet what makes Usha Vance’s reading habits—and the coverage surrounding it—particularly odd is the fact that publications like The Independent noted her extensive reading while on the campaign trail. And? Does she expect a reward?
Ultimately, she made the choice to marry Vance. Consequently, she is intertwined with his views on sexism, homophobia, and racism. He has not championed federal support for same-sex and interracial marriage—a stance that ironically affects his own marriage. Thus, Usha Vance’s reading of The Iliad is hardly of consequence. Perhaps it’s time for a lesson in empathy!
My interest in individuals who support campaigns that seek to strip away the rights of Americans is minimal. It’s great to know she’s engaged with Homer’s writings, but maybe she could share a lesson or two with her husband. Usha Vance mentioned that JD enjoys having her and their children join him on the campaign trail; if that’s the case, perhaps they can use their family moments to discuss his ongoing efforts to restrict women’s autonomy over their bodies.
But hey, let’s just focus on Greek mythology.
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