The Tragically Paradoxical Role of Women in Ancient Roman Society :: Essays Papers

The Tragically Paradoxical Role of Women in Ancient Roman SocietyIn nervous preparation for the essay section of my history final, I found myself fascinated by Livys anecdotes concerning the common thread of violence against women. Livy, a Roman historian, wrote a significant human activity of volumes concerning the ride and fall of the Roman Empire. Three stories in particular, the rape of the Sabine women, the rape of Lucretia, and the death of Verginia, shed light on the ancient Roman female as a surrogate victim blamed for her gender and sexuality in relation to men. While considering the themes of Marchs Womens HerStory Month and straight Aprils Domestic Violence Awareness month, I thought it might be relevant to raise awareness of womens struggles during this time. Such a observance would spur progress towards a society that fosters nonviolence and gender equality. One should note how the women involved in these stories face a fundamental and perhaps respectable paradox i n their situation.Many articles in learned journals refer to Livys rape of the Sabine women as a myth, but I believe a kernel of truth shines through this supposed fiction to reveal how the aggressive and selfish character of the early Romans imposed themselves on the lives of unknowing, innocent Sabine women. In 715 BC, Rome was experiencing rapid expansion so Romulus, the current leader, faced a problem in his ambition to increase the population. There existed no intermarriage among close communities and consequently, the Romans felt resentful. Due to a shortage of woman, the Romans actually faced extinction at this time. So Rome staged a celebration of the Consualia, a feast in honor of Neptune, patron of the horse. Citizens came from nearby towns such as Caenina, Crustumium, Antemnae, and all the Sabines. However, when the show began, all the able-bodied Roman men rushed through the clump and seized all the young women. As a result, war broke out between the Sabines and the R omans and it was the woman who actually emerged to unite their husbands and fathers, blaming themselves for the war (while they were the true victims). Livy claims that the nature of a womens heart caused them to sympathize with their husbands, who had kidnapped them and taken them from their homes. The men, too, played their part they spoke honeyed words and vowed that it was passionate love which prompted their offense. No plea can give out touch a womans heart (Livy 44).