The texts Antigone and Wicked challenge conventional ideas about gender. Both Elphaba and Antigone demonstrate strong will and are figures of rebellion as they challenge the status quo in their patriarchal societies. The main characters in these books reject feminine constructs of leadership, challenge democracy, and deconstruct ideologies of motherhood and male dependency by courageously embracing the label “the other.” In relation to leadership and women, historically women who wanted to seek leadership roles were often seen projecting the traditional male leadership model. This model means being rational, dispassionate and analytical. It also means that, to be successful, women traditionally had to look and act like a man to be taken seriously in leadership positions. Women in the past often dressed in suits and ties and anything feminine was seen as an internal "weakness". Being a leader in power meant exuding confidence in masculinity and shying away from anything remotely feminine. As opposed to the female model who sees power as focused on connection and harmony rather than power over something, someone. This power can be exercised through collective gain or physical attractiveness (Kruse 22). Glinda from Wicked fits this traditional mold. In Maguire's book, Glinda is depicted as blonde and pretty following the ideological model of beauty and although she is enrolled in university, she invests more time in climbing the social ladder. Glinda too often adapts to the needs and interests of the men of Oz and becomes a leader in Shiz thanks to her feminine beauty and ability to connect with others. Finally, Glinda's acquiescence at the loss of Elphaba's friendship, the corruption of the Wizards further governs... middle of the card... do, with all your crown, your ornaments and your guards, all that you can do is get me killed” (Sophocles190). This type of courage ultimately shows that Antigone is courageous and willing to stand up to the man and does so openly with pride. This kind of courage was rare for women of that time. Antigone dies bravely and in loyalty to her brother and because of this she is a model of a strong female protagonist as she clearly does not meet gender expectations. Captivatingly, both women act boldly, regardless of culturally constructed labels such as women, products of incest, and evil. They use their “otherness” as a mechanism of power, rather than an excuse for passivity. In conclusion, Elphaba and Antigone challenge conventional gender roles, as they are strong and courageous figures of rebellion and exemplify a lack of traditional gender normativeness..