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Life of women in the city of Athens



Women in ancient Athens spent most of their time inside their homes. They lived in a special part of the house called the gynoecion which was separate from the men. Most Athenian women were not allowed to own property or vote in elections. Their main job was to manage the household and look after the children. They rarely went outside unless there was a religious festival or a special family event.



Education and skills for Athenian girls



Girls in Athens did not go to school like the boys did in the city. They stayed at home and learned how to spin wool and weave cloth from their mothers. Most girls were taught how to cook and manage a budget for a large house. Some girls from wealthy families learned how to read and write a little bit. Their education was entirely focused on preparing them to become good wives and mothers.



Marriage traditions in ancient Athens



Marriages in Athens were usually arranged by the father of the bride when the girl was very young. Most girls were married around the age of 14 or 15 to men who were much older. The bride's family had to provide a dowry which was a gift of money or goods. After the wedding the woman became the legal responsibility of her new husband instead of her father. Women had very little choice in who they married or how they lived their lives.



Rights and laws for Athenian women



Under Athenian law women were always considered minors and needed a male guardian at all times. This guardian was usually a father a brother or a husband who made all the big decisions. Women could not take part in the political assembly where laws were made for the city. They were also not allowed to represent themselves in court if there was a legal problem. Despite these rules women played a very important role in religious ceremonies and rituals.



Life of women in the city of Sparta



Women in Sparta had much more freedom and power than the women in Athens. They were encouraged to be strong and healthy so they could have strong children. Spartan women could own their own land and manage their own money without a man. They were often left in charge of the entire farm while the men were away at war. Because of this Spartan women were known for being very independent and outspoken.



Education and physical training in Sparta



Spartan girls went to school and received a formal education just like the boys. They participated in physical activities like running wrestling and throwing the discus or javelin. The goal of this training was to make them the toughest women in all of Greece. They were also taught how to sing dance and play musical instruments for festivals. This focus on fitness was very different from the quiet life of girls in Athens.