Gender Role Representations in Art: The Woman of Willendorf and Kouros

Introduction

Representations of gender and gender roles play an important role in modern society, but they have had a significant impact on societies even in the distant past. To examine the different kinds of representations of gender in the past, we can analyze works from different eras, such as The Woman of Willendorf (period about 25,000-20000 BC) and the Kouros or Statue of a Standing Young Man (Ancient Greece, about 580 BC).

The Woman of Willendorf

To begin with, The Woman of Willendorf is a sculpture of a woman who is depicted in a foursome position, with massive hips and long strands of hair that fall down her back. The sculpture shows a woman in the role of a mother, and the idea of parenthood and caring for others is a central tenet of the representation of gender in this work (Artincontext). This is illustrated by the fact that the figure represents the integrity and nurturing of the family through her position, and the long hair can symbolize caring and material support.

Kouros

However, other representations of gender can also be found in contemporary society. For example, in the work Kouros or Statue of a Standing Young Man, the representation of gender and gender roles represents strength, courage, and bravery. The statue represents a perfectly built man who stands upright, facing obstacles and dangers (Harris and Zucker). He is portrayed as completely open, and his posture demonstrates confidence and strength. This is illustrated by the statue depicting men’s social role in ensuring social status and stability even at a young age.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it can be said that the representation of gender and gender roles in different works of history differs, but they demonstrate constant values and principles in past and contemporary society. The Woman of Willendorf emphasizes the role of motherhood and caring, while the Kouros or Statue of a Standing Young Man demonstrates strength, courage, and youth. Thus, these works help us better understand the representation of gender and gender roles in the past.

Works Cited

‌Artincontext. “‘Venus of Willendorf’ – a Study of This Famous Fertility Goddess Statue.” Artincontext.org, Web.

Harris, Dr. Beth, and Dr. Steven Zucker. “Marble statue of a kouros (New York Kouros)”. Smarthistory, Web.

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StudyCorgi. (2025) 'Gender Role Representations in Art: The Woman of Willendorf and Kouros'. 5 October.

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StudyCorgi. "Gender Role Representations in Art: The Woman of Willendorf and Kouros." October 5, 2025. https://studycorgi.com/gender-role-representations-in-art-the-woman-of-willendorf-and-kouros/.

References

StudyCorgi. 2025. "Gender Role Representations in Art: The Woman of Willendorf and Kouros." October 5, 2025. https://studycorgi.com/gender-role-representations-in-art-the-woman-of-willendorf-and-kouros/.

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