Read the quote about women in Roman society. “[T]he position of the Roman matron was quite different from that of the Greek matron in the time of Pericles. The Roman matron was mistress in her own household. As the husband took charge of all external transactions, so the wife was supreme in household arrangements.” —James Donaldson, Woman; Her Position and Influence in Ancient Greece and Rome Based on your knowledge of the role of women in the Roman republic, provide evidence to prove the author’s claim that the position of Roman women was different from that of Greek women. (4 points)
One piece of evidence to support the author's claim is the fact that Roman women were allowed to own property and conduct business transactions in their own name. They had legal rights and could inherit property, which gave them a certain level of independence and authority within their households.
Additionally, Roman women had more freedom to participate in social and public activities compared to Greek women. They were often seen in public places like markets and public baths, and they could attend public events and social gatherings. This suggests that they had a higher level of visibility and engagement in society compared to Greek women.
Furthermore, Roman women could acquire education and were encouraged to develop skills such as reading, writing, and playing musical instruments. Some influential Roman women, such as Cornelia, the mother of the Gracchi brothers, were highly educated and had intellectual pursuits. This emphasis on education and intellectual development further demonstrates the higher social standing and autonomy that Roman women enjoyed compared to Greek women.
Lastly, the practice of monogamy was more common in the Roman society compared to the Greek society. Roman women were expected to be faithful to their husbands, and adultery was heavily condemned. This suggests a higher level of respect and honor given to Roman women within marital relationships, as compared to the more permissive extramarital affairs tolerated in Greek society.
Overall, these examples provide evidence to support the author's claim that the position of Roman women was different from that of Greek women. Roman women had more independence, authority, visibility, and societal engagement compared to Greek women, who were often confined to the domestic sphere and had limited legal rights and social participation.