Who was the female poet known for writing love poems that expressed attraction for other women in the 7th century B.C.E.?

Prepare for the CLEP Western Civilization 1 Test with our interactive quizzes and insightful explanations. Boost your readiness with well-designed questions and essential historical insights!

The correct answer is Sappho of Lesbos, a prominent female poet from the island of Lesbos who lived during the 7th century B.C.E. Sappho is celebrated for her lyrical poetry, much of which explored themes of love and desire, particularly her attraction to women. Her work is notable for its emotional depth and intimacy, providing insight into the emotional lives and relationships of women in her time. The term "lesbian" even derives from the name of her home island, reflecting her legacy in LGBTQ+ literature.

The other figures mentioned did not focus on the same themes or lived in a different context. Aeschylus was primarily known as a playwright and is often credited as the father of tragedy. Cleisthenes was a political reformer in ancient Athens known for laying the foundation for democracy, and Pindar was a renowned poet celebrated for his victory odes rather than the personal, intimate themes found in Sappho's work. Thus, Sappho stands out as the quintessential figure in this context, specifically regarding her contributions to poetry about love and attraction between women.

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