Women in Ancient Rome Flashcards

Flashcards based on lecture notes about the roles, representations, and realities of women in ancient Roman society. These flashcards cover key figures, social structures, legal aspects, and cultural perceptions related to women during the Roman Republic and Empire.

Who were the Sabine Women in Roman history?

In Livy's account, these women were abducted by Roman men, later fell in love with them, and intervened to stop a battle between the Romans and their Sabine families.

Who was Tarpeia?

According to Livy, she betrayed Rome by helping the Sabines access the city but was killed by them as punishment.

Who was Cloelia?

Livy wrote about her leadership in leading women hostages across the Tiber River to return home, admired for her bravery.

Who was Lucretia?

In Livy's account, she was a woman who killed herself after being raped by Tarquin, to serve as an example of ideal womanhood.

Who was Verginia, and what happened to her?

In Livy's tale, Her father killed her to prevent her from becoming a victim of sexual violence at the hands of Appius Claudius.

How were Etruscan women viewed, and what was their actual status?

Greek and Roman sources often portrayed them as immoral, but they held high social status, autonomy, and privileges in Etruscan society.

What does Paterfamilias refer to in Roman society?

The male head of the household, typically the father, who held authority over all household members and had the final say in decisions.

What is a Matrona?

A legally married woman in Rome, often associated with certain expectations of marriage

What is [patria] potestas?

The father's legal and absolute power over his household, including wife and slaves.

What is cum manu marriage?

Marriage where the woman passes from her father's control into the authority of her husband, losing membership in her own family.

What is sine manu marriage?

Marriage where the woman remains under her father's authority and can inherit from his estate, retaining ownership of her dowry.

What does Univira mean?

A woman who had only slept with one man and never remarried, symbolizing moral chastity and exemplifying a high moral quality in society.

Who was Sulpicia?

The only female poet of Latin poetry whose work survived and wrote six short poems that challenged the expectations of women at the time.

Who was Calpurnia?

Raised by her uncle as a father, she was a devoted wife who admired her husband, Pliny, and his work.

Who was Cornelia?

Respected for not crying at her sons' deaths, she was devoted to raising her children and was seen as an exemplary matrona.

Who was Clodia/Lesbia?

Accused of killing her husband and having incest with her brother, Clodia was an independent woman involved in politics and financial decisions.

Who was Julia?

Daughter of Emperor Augustus, she was known for her education but also her affairs and lack of modesty, leading to her banishment.

What were the Julian Laws?

Reforms by Augustus to regulate sexual behavior, encourage childbirth, and criminalize adultery.

Who was Livia?

Wife of Augustus, she was an elite woman involved in construction, advising Augustus, and influencing court affairs.

Who was Eumachia?

A citizen of Pompeii who, through her wealth, became a public priestess and sponsored the fullers guild, receiving honors for her contributions.

Who was Cleopatra VII?

Greek queen of Egypt known for her ambition, intelligence, and affairs with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony, she aimed to strengthen Egypt's independence.

What was the Lex Oppia?

Law enacted in 215 BCE prohibiting women from displaying their wealth, leading to protests and demands for its repeal.

Who was Vesta?

Goddess and guardian of the sacred hearth and eternal flame, symbolizing Rome's stability and prosperity.

Who were the Vestal Virgins?

Women who dedicated 30 years to guarding the Temple of Vesta, performing rituals, and maintaining virginity.

Who was Quinta Claudia?

She proved her chastity by using her own hair to tow the barge carrying the statue of the Great Mother.

What was the Bacchic affair of 186 BCE?

Started as a women-only religion but then encourage violence, and promiscuity.

What was the Bona Dea - Clodius - Pompeia scandal?

Publius Clodius disguised himself as a woman to see Julius Caesar's wife, Pompeia, leading to a scandal and Caesar's divorce.