Masculinity and Femininity as Violence and Peace

My classmates have already thoroughly pointed out the gender curiosities saturating Byron’s attempt at a play. However, rather than using Sardanapalus’ effeminate characterization as a bad thing, I think Byron was trying to make a point about how less violence is a good thing. Especially in light of a tumultuous southern Europe during the time he was writing. He makes this point clear during Sardanapalus’ conversation with Salemenes concerning the diety Bacchus. Sal. says to Sar. Bacchus was considered a god for all the conquering he did as a man, and Sar. follows with, “And in his godship I will honour him—not much as man… of all his conquests a few columns… are the landmarks of the seas of gore he shed… but here—here in this goblet is his title to immortality [wine].” Sar.’s personage is described as “lazy” or could be explained as peaceful—which is connected to feminism. “And his diadem lies negligently by to be caught up by the first manly hand which dares to snatch it.” This refers to the discontent with his people wanting trophies of a great rule such as new edifices built and places conquered, but he is content with a passive existence. His kingdom could be snatched away by a manly (violent/ forceful) hand.