greek women

• What was the primary expectation of women in society?

  Manage households and bear children
• Why were women excluded from public decision-making?

  Society viewed them as primarily domestic figures
• What was the primary duty of women in ancient society?

  Ensure the continuation of the family line
• How were marriages typically arranged?

  By male relatives for political or financial gain
• What was the significance of the dowry in marriage?

  It symbolized the bride’s economic contribution
• What does the transition from father’s household to husband’s signify for women?

  It reflects their transitional role in society
• What were women's responsibilities in religious activities?

  They had significant responsibilities
• What key roles did women hold in religious contexts?

  Priestesses and participants in festivals
• What types of work might lower-class women do?

  Work in markets or as wet nurses
• What was the focus of women's education?

  Domestic skills like weaving and cooking
• What legal status did women hold in society?

  They were legal minors under male guardianship
• What happened to the dowry in case of divorce?

  It was returned to the woman’s family
• Could women own property independently?

  No, but they could inherit under exceptions
• Who idealized women like Penelope in literature?

  Homer
• How did Hesiod portray women in his works?

  In a more negative light
• How did Aristotle view women in society?

  As naturally subordinate to men
• What was Plato's view on gender equality?

  He advocated for it in some contexts
• What themes do tragedy and comedy explore regarding women?

  Tensions surrounding women’s roles
• What does Medea's vengeance in Euripides' play represent?

  A challenge to societal norms
• What role did women play in the Panathenaia festival?

  Wove the peplos for Athena’s statue
• What was the Thesmophoria festival dedicated to?

  Honoring Demeter
• How did women's roles differ between Athens and Sparta?

  Athenian women were secluded, Spartan women had freedom
• What was the status of women in Sparta regarding property?

  They could own property
• Why were Spartan women respected in society?

  For their role in producing warriors
• What do modern historians debate about women's agency?

  The extent of their influence in society
• What are the key themes regarding women's roles in ancient society?

  • Role in Society: Manage households, excluded from politics
  • Marriage: Arranged by males, dowry significance
  • Religious Roles: Priestesses, festival participation
  • Education: Focus on domestic skills, some work outside
  • Legal Status: Legal minors, limited property rights