The Nameless Women of the Ark

The story of the women of Noah’s Ark intrigues me, because it appears in slightly different forms in many cultures.  The women, Noah’ wife and her daughter-in-laws, are very present in the story but remain unnamed, in spite of the fact that lesser male characters are named.

The role that these women play is curious to me.  For the sake of communication, let’s call Noah’s wife, Mrs. Noah. She supports her husband through what must have been a very difficult time! Noah is building an ark in the back yard and telling everyone who will listen that the rains are coming and that if people don’t prepare, they will die.  Since they don’t listen, one  can only suppose that they must think that he is losing his sanity. Mrs. Noah helps him achieve his goal. One can only wonder about her doubts.

This is the story of dedication and support without recognition.  Did she and the other nameless women of the Ark have to cook for everyone? Clean up after all the animals? What is their story?