essay of ancient mother childhood
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Though Jocasta’s role in society as Queen of Thebes and as mother seems desirable in Sophocles’ Oedipus Rex, the actual role of most women during ancient Greece was of lesser value. Women were rarely seen as public figures during this time, as their primary role was that of child bearers. Childbearing was the most vital yet most dangerous aspect of a woman’s life. A female’s entire life was centered on her family, her children, and her husband. She had to cater to the needs of her husband and children, never taking her own health into account.
Women in ancient Greece had virtually no legal rights. In fact, the status of women in society was seemingly lower in the classical period than at any other time in Greece. Women were confined to their homes and families, and acted more as servants to their husbands and fathers. In the home, the quarters for the women and men were separate. Women’s quarters, called gynaeconitis, were kept closed, located on the top level of the house. Men rarely entered the gynaeconitis, as these rooms were meant for mothers and nurses to raise their girls. Girls were often taught to make clothes by working wool and weaving, and learned childcare by helping with younger siblings. Few girls learned to read and write. Women seldom left their quarters, as it was proper for them to stay in. It was thought to be indecent for a woman to leave her house, unless for a special occasion, such as funerals, weddings, and public holidays (Zinserling, 23 ), though women were extremely active in the practice and performance of religious rituals. Women were permitted to partake in certain religious activities, in particular ones that were related to motherhood. Participating in these events was most socially acceptable.Women Praying to the Gods