Lesson 4: Women in Athens

At fifteen, an Athenian girl was considered ready for marriage. Usually it was to someone chosen by her father.

Once a girl was married, her husband controlled all her property and possessions. She was dominated by her husband and did what she was told. She had very few rights. For example, an Athenian woman couldn't participate in politics or own land or property. She had no legal rights, so she couldn't take someone to court. She was also forbidden from going to the Olympics or to the agora (marketplace). In fact, the only time a woman could leave the house was to go to a funeral, a religious festival, or the theatre, and only then when accompanied by her husband. Women seen outside on their own were assumed to be slaves, prostitutes, or beggars.

In her home, though, the woman was in charge. She raised the children, cooked the meals, and supervised the work of the slaves. Slaves did most of the housework.

Send In Activity 4:
Complete one of these options.

Option A: Advice Column
Option B: Declaration of Rights and Freedoms