In the world of ancient greece, the category into which a person was classed defined who they were, how they were regarded by others, and also what they were entitled to do. Gender was a major aspect of this society, as power would not be evenly distributed. Only men would be allowed to participate in activities that were deemed important to the society, such as politics, higher levels of education, military, and the law. Because of these activities that all required either strength, toughness, or charisma, it was important that men proved their masculinity in order to prove their worth in this different institutions, as well as socially. Because of this, women were suppose to display qualities such as home makers, care takers, or whatever other roles suited that families class. They were expected to refrain from violence in order to maintain that kind, ladylike image, and also to raise the children. Although men were deemed more important then women, not all men were deemed equal. In order to deem which males were superior, men would compete to prove their "manliness" to show their worth, and also to further their prestige in society.
This image serves as an accurate description in regards to gender roles in ancient Greece. As can be seen, only the men in the picture are the ones carrying weapons, as only they were deemed important enough to have positions in the military, and law. The woman appears helpless, which also fits these roles as women were expected to appear ladylike, refrain from violence, and create a home for the men. Not only this, but the clothing can also show evidence towards the gender roles, as the clothing the woman is wearing is rather plain. The men however, have armor on, and designs etched in the helmets and shields, as a way of showing their prestige and power.
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