As International Women's Day approaches, discussions about women's status in society often revert to age-old narratives. Lily Zoğrahou's book "From Medea to Cinderella" emphasizes that contemporary inequalities are not newly conceived but have evolved over centuries through cultural stereotypes. The narrative begins from two iconic female figures who appear to be in a constant dialogue: Medea, representing a rebellious woman, and Cinderella, epitomizing the ideal 'good' female, which reflects society's conflicting expectations for women.

Medea symbolizes a woman who defies predetermined boundaries. Her tragic story illustrates how her strength and passion become a threat to societal norms. The author notes that Medea's character should not only be interpreted through the moral lens of tragedy but also through the doctrine that women seeking autonomy often face symbolic or real punishment within their societies. This provides a historical context about the challenges women have faced throughout different periods, connecting her story to the broader theme of justice and equality.

In contrast, Cinderella is portrayed as the archetype of a 'good' woman, celebrated for conforming to social expectations. The juxtaposition of these two figures raises important questions about the roles women play in society and how these roles have been shaped and limited by cultural narratives. Ultimately, the book serves as a critical examination of the continuing struggles for women's rights and representation, encouraging readers to reflect on the progress made and the stereotypes that remain prevalent today.