Module 2: Discussion: Women in Ancient Greece

Purpose

The purpose of this discussion board is to analyze the role of women in Ancient Greece.

Theme

The theme of this module’s discussion board is gender.

Readings

The readings for this discussion board are all web links below.

• The Lot of the Hellenic Woman
• Plato: The Republic Book V: On the Equality of Women: Sections 450a-457b
• Herodotus: Artemisia at Salamis
• Aristotle: Spartan Women
• Xenophon: On Men and Women

Directions

Analyze “The Lot of Hellenic Women” and then choose two other sources from the list to answer the questions.

• What is the ideal role of a woman in Ancient Greece?
• How is she to behave in this role?
• What are her responsibilities?
• What are her limitations?
• Are any roles off limits or frowned upon for Ancient Greek women, and why?