Knowledge of Women in Ancient Greece

Understand that women in ancient Greece were largely confined to the domestic sphere, responsible for managing the home, raising children, and producing textiles.
Recognise that women’s roles could vary depending on their social class. Wealthy women often had the help of slaves or attendants, while poorer women had to do their housework themselves.
Note that exceptionally, Spartan women enjoyed relative freedom and status, as they could own and manage property and were also expected to remain physically fit for the production of strong warriors.

Women’s Participation in Religion

Appreciate the critical role of women in religious ceremonies and worship. Females of all ages participated in religious festivals, processions, and rituals- some of which were exclusively for women.
Familiarise with the fact that priestess roles were often the only public roles women could perform, and that these positions were greatly respected.
Keep in mind the mythical accounts of powerful goddesses, such as Athena and Artemis, and their influence on cultural perceptions.

Recognise women’s roles and depictions in Greek myth and literature. Heroines like Penelope in the Odyssey exemplify domestic virtue, while others, such as Medea or Clytemnestra, challenge societal norms.
Realise that in tragedies, women often play central roles, representing a range of characteristics from the noble to the monstrous. But keep in mind these were performed by male actors and written by male playwrights.
Understand that women were arguably one of the most prominent subjects of ancient poetry, particularly in the work of Sappho, the notable female poet from Lesbos.

Identify how women are often portrayed on ancient pottery and frescoes. They are often depicted in domestic scenes or religious rituals.
Comprehend that depictions of women on vase paintings may show idealised versions of beauty or virtue and might not represent the true lived experience of women.
Observe that certain objects like jewellery or cosmetics vessels can give insights into women’s beauty standards and daily life.