Women In Greece By: Samantha Black

General They were often thought to be inferior creatures that weren’t much more intelligent than children. Most of what we know about women in Greece came from writings of the Athenians. Out of all of the major ancient civilizations, Greece is said to have had the worst treatment towards their women.

Athens Many philosophers thought that women had strong emotions and weak minds. For these reasons, the Athenians thought they had to be protected from themselves and had to be kept from doing any damage on others. Their solution: kyrios: a man who was either her closest relative by birth or her husband.

Property Could own clothing, jewelry, a personal slave, or some inexpensive items. Permitted to use the items that they owned but were not allowed to sell, give away, or bequeath any of them. Could not enter into a contract or own property. Three ways women in Athens could gain property: 1. gifts 2. dowry 3. inheritance

Marriage Girls would usually enter into a marriage shortly after they reached puberty. Usually, their husbands would be in their late 20’s or early 30’s. Marriages were arranged by the woman’s guardian (kyrio). Usually no love or affection. If there was, it only played a small part.

Role as Wives Wives were to bear legitimate children and take care of the house. Expected to remain in their homes. “Good wives” would spend their days spinning, weaving, or taking care of children.

Non-Wives If a woman was not married, they would fit into one of four groups: 1.-Those living in brothels 2.-On the streets as prostitutes 3.-Heteras 4.-Concubines

Other Stuff :) Some women could read and write and were well informed on the things happening. Women would gather together all the time. Men and women, however would not socialize. If the husband had guests, women were expected to remain in the women’s quarters throughout the visit.

Sparta Spartan women had rights. In fact, many Greeks thought that they had too much power for the good of their state. They could own property. They were educated and actually encouraged to develop their intellect.

Sparta Cont. They did not have a vote in the assembly but appeared to have a lot of influence. Girls participated in athletics along with boys. Daughters inherited just like the sons did. Known for being bold and licentious. Wore their tunics different.

Marriage Most were arranged by the parents. Women married at 18. Several men could share a wife and any children would be considered their own. Not really any emotional support in a Spartan marriage.

Mothers Women would raise their sons until the age of 7. A mother was either proud of her son or disgusted at his cowardice. They would often tell their sons: “Come home with your shield or upon it”.

Husbands and Wives Because of Sparta’s military, men were not usually around. “Borrowing” wives. “The men of Sparta have always obeyed their wives” ~Plutarch

Interesting… The creation of Athens and women voting. In Athens, the treatment of wives varied. Women slaves could be killed if they didn’t cooperate or if their owner wanted. Could not participate in the Olympic Games. Women were important in religion. Older women were often more respected.

Works Cited Thompson, James. "Women in Ancient Greece." Women in the Ancient World. November Web. 3 Mar Kluth, Frederick. "Politics and Women of Ancient Greece." The Role of Women in the Art of Ancient Greece. 20 September Web. 3 Mar "Women in Ancient Greece." Ancient Greece. Web. 3 Mar

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