Women in Ancient Rome

The Other Half of History explores an aspect of history that is often overlooked - the history of women.

In ancient Rome, political power was held by kings, emperors, magistrates and senators. What role did women play in the vast and expanding empire? By law, very little. Women had few rights, and were not allowed to take part in the public world of law and government. A woman’s place was in the home. But evidence shows us that many women were capable and influential; some worked alongside their husbands in business, while others were patrons of the arts. And a few Roman women defied their traditional role and spoke out in public, sometimes with dramatic results.

Grade 4-8-Clear and concise series titles. Arranged topically, the books briefly discuss such subjects as the role of women at home and at work, health and beauty, and famous individuals. In Rome, discussions range from a girl's childhood and education to men's perception of women to Sulpicia, a poetess, and Doctor Fabiola, a surgeon. Medieval Times covers similar topics with additional emphasis on women in villages and towns and noblewomen. Although the focus of these titles is on females, readers will also learn some basic information about these eras. Both books have numerous photographs and reproductions of period art and artifacts that serve to clarify and enhance the texts. Quotes from writings of the periods and sidebars give further insight. These well-rounded historical overviews will be useful for research ideas or for reports.
Lana Miles, Duchesne Academy, Houston, TX
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