Women in Classical Antiquity

An introduction to women and gender in the classical world that draws on the most recent research in the field

Women in Classical Antiquity focuses on the important objects, events and concepts that combine to form a clear understanding of ancient Greek and Roman women and gender. Drawing on the most recent findings and research on the topic, the book offers an overview of the historical events, values, and institutions that are critical for appreciating and comparing the life situations of women across both cultures.

The author examines the lifecycle of women in ancient Greek and Rome beginning with how young females acquired the gendered characteristics necessary for adulthood. The text explores female adolescence, including concerns about virginity, medical views of the female body, religious roles, and education. Views of marriage, motherhood, sexual activity, adultery, and prostitution are also examined. In addition, the author explores how women exercised authority and the possibilities for their civic engagement. This important resource:

• Explores the formation of classical women's social identity through the life stages of birth, adolescence, marriage, childbirth, old age, and death
• Contains information on the most recent research in this rapidly evolving field
• Offers a review of the life course as a way to understand the social processes by which Greek and Roman females acquired gender traits
• Includes questions for review, suggestions for further reading, and a glossary of key terms

Written for academics and students of classical antiquity, Women in Classical Antiquity offers a general introduction to women and gender in the classical world.

Laura K. McClure, PhD, is Professor of Classics in the Department of Classical and Ancient Near Eastern Studies in the College of Letters and Science at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Her diverse research interests include Athenian drama, the study of women in the ancient world, and classical reception. Her publications include books on the representation of women in Athenian drama and the courtesan in the Greek literary tradition.