Role of Women in Greek Culture
The role of women in Greek culture has changed since ancient times. This can be attributed to improved education, the development of civilization and influences from other cultures.
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Ancient Role of Women
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During Ancient times women were secondary to men and not permitted to take part in public life. Women had little freedom because their role was to run the house, raise children and become homemakers. Women were not included in entertaining as this was perceived as the luxury and duty of men. The only sport women could compete in was chariot racing. However if they won, the horse received the prize. Upper class women were often educated, however, this was frowned upon.
Modern Greece
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In modern Greece, women are no longer viewed as just homemakers. However, family values are still inherent and women run the family house and raise children. Despite this, women have greater freedom and have a more dominant place in Greek culture compared to ancient times. Women are able to own land, work and entertain. The role of women in Greece is comparable with women in the U.S where they vote, have careers and the freedom of speech.
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Fun Fact
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In ancient Greece, a woman's father chose her husband and she had to a remain virgin before marriage. Marriage celebrations were called 'gamos' and included the bride's female relatives washing and dressing her in white. The bride would carry a pomegranate as a symbol of fertility and wear a crown during the wedding ceremony.
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- Photo Credit greece map image by Goran Bogicevic from Fotolia.com
