Shows like 'Sex and the City' got women involved again in a

"Shows like 'Sex and the City' got women involved again in a political way. They were drawn into the personal stories of the four women who together make up one complete cosmopolitan woman. We want to have community, and the show filled that void in our lives: friendship between women." These words from Kim Cattrall offer a powerful reflection on the transformative nature of friendship and community. In a world where individualism often overshadows the collective, Cattrall points to how 'Sex and the City' resonated with women by depicting a shared bond of friendship—a bond that not only provided emotional support but also awakened a political consciousness. The show, through the lives of its four central characters, illustrated how friendship between women could become a community of strength, empowerment, and mutual understanding.

The ancient world, too, recognized the power of community and friendship in shaping society. Aristotle, in his writings on ethics, argued that human beings are naturally social creatures, and that the highest form of friendship is one based on mutual virtue and shared purpose. For Aristotle, true friendship was not merely about personal affection, but about community, where each individual works for the good of the whole. In this light, Cattrall’s words mirror the ancient understanding that friendship can transcend the individual, creating a social fabric that connects people to each other, to society, and to a greater sense of purpose.

Consider the bonds of friendship that defined the ancient Greek symposium, where men gathered not only to enjoy wine and conversation, but to engage in intellectual discussions that shaped the philosophical and political landscape. These gatherings were not just about personal connection—they were about creating a shared community of thought and action. In much the same way, 'Sex and the City' created a community of women, each contributing their unique perspectives and experiences to a larger conversation about identity, empowerment, and social dynamics. The show, like the ancient symposium, became a place for dialogue, reflection, and shared experiences that helped women understand their place in the world.

Yet, the most significant contribution of 'Sex and the City', as Cattrall suggests, is how it drew women into a political consciousness. The four women—Carrie, Charlotte, Miranda, and Samantha—were not just characters on a screen; they represented the complexity of modern womanhood, navigating issues of career, relationships, sexuality, and personal identity. Through their friendship, they each confronted societal norms, challenged expectations, and supported each other in the pursuit of personal freedom. In doing so, they created a political space for women to engage with ideas that were often left unexplored in mainstream media. Their friendship was not just a source of emotional solace; it was a vehicle for change, a way for women to confront the struggles they faced in a world that was constantly evolving.

The show’s portrayal of friendship between women as a form of community is perhaps its most enduring legacy. In ancient Rome, the poet Ovid spoke of the importance of companionship in his work on love and relationships, suggesting that even in times of hardship, the support of friends could help one navigate the storms of life. Ovid’s vision of friendship was not confined to the romantic or familial spheres; it was about a network of support that extended beyond the immediate circle, creating a larger, interconnected community of individuals who uplifted one another. In the same way, 'Sex and the City' illustrated that the bonds between women were not simply a private matter, but a shared source of power and resilience that could change the way society viewed women’s roles and relationships.

In our own time, Cattrall’s words invite us to reflect on the importance of community in our lives. The show brought forth the realization that friendship among women could be a powerful force for both personal and collective change. In a world where the pressures of individualism often alienate us from one another, the reminder of the importance of shared connection and support is more vital than ever. We must ask ourselves: Do we prioritize genuine friendship in our lives? Are we willing to create spaces for meaningful dialogue, where we can support one another, confront challenges together, and empower each other to reach our highest potential?

The lesson here is clear: friendship is not only an emotional bond but a community that can shape our personal lives and our society. Whether in the ancient world or today, friendship between women—and indeed between all people—is a powerful force for change and empowerment. Just as the characters in 'Sex and the City' became a community that challenged societal expectations, we too must seek to cultivate friendships that are rooted in mutual support, respect, and shared purpose. Let us embrace the transformative power of genuine friendship, for it is through these relationships that we can create a world where all individuals are uplifted, empowered, and connected.