The claim that the position of Roman women was distinctly different from that of Greek women is supported by several key aspects of their respective societal roles, legal rights, and domestic responsibilities during their respective periods.
-
Legal Status: In Ancient Greece, particularly in the classical period, women had limited legal rights and were often considered legal minors under the authority of their male guardians. They could not own property in their own right and were largely excluded from public life. In contrast, Roman women, especially during the late Republic, had more autonomy. They could own and inherit property, enter into contracts, and manage their own finances to some extent. While still under the authority of male guardians (the patria potestas), they had a comparatively greater legal status.
-
Household Authority: The quote highlights the idea that the Roman matron was "mistress in her own household." In Rome, women had significant influence within their households, overseeing domestic affairs, managing slaves, and making decisions about family resources. This contrasts sharply with the Greek system, where women, particularly in conservative city-states like Athens, were expected to remain largely sequestered and had minimal control over household decisions, as these were usually made by their husbands or male relatives.
-
Public Life: While both Roman and Greek women were largely excluded from formal political life, Roman women had more opportunities to participate in public social activities. They could attend public games, religious festivals, and other community events, where they could exert influence through social networks. In contrast, many Greek women were expected to stay away from public spaces, and their influence was largely confined to the private sphere.
-
Marriage and Family: Roman marriage customs also reflected a different social dynamic. Roman women could marry at a relatively young age, and they often had a greater say in the choice of their husbands as time progressed. The institution of manus, where a wife was legally under the authority of her husband, became less common, allowing women to retain their familial connections and property even after marriage. In contrast, Greek women were usually married off at a young age with little say in their choice of husband, and they were expected to fully integrate into their husband's household upon marriage.
-
Literary Evidence: Roman literature and historical accounts often highlight the roles of notable women in society, such as Livia Drusilla (the wife of Augustus) and Cornelia (the mother of the Gracchi). These women are depicted as powerful figures who exerted significant influence in their own right, reflecting a societal recognition of women’s contributions. In contrast, much of the surviving literature from ancient Greece emphasizes male figures and their accomplishments, with women often portrayed in stereotypical or diminished roles.
In conclusion, the evidence indicates that Roman women enjoyed a status that allowed for greater household authority, legal rights, and social participation relative to their Greek counterparts, supporting the author's claim regarding the distinct position of women in Roman society compared to that of Greek women.