- Introduction
- FAQs
- Lives of Spartan Women
- Social Responsibilities
- Famous Spartan Women
- The Non-Native View of Spartan Women
- FAQs
FAQs
What was unique about Spartan women?
Spartan women’s education in both the physical and intellectual domains was a unique trait that set them apart from the rest of the women in classical Greece. In addition to their training, Spartan women were also accorded the right to own and inherit property, which was a rarity across the ancient world. Sparta’s unique society was inherently built around the institution of its military, which was in constant need of soldiers and able-bodied men. This, in combination with King Lycurgus’ unique philosophy to build a strong society, led to several other attributes in women, such as their independent handling of business, finance, and the household since the men were almost always away from home. These factors came together to result in a population of independent, educated, strong, and physically fit women that were rare in other parts of the Hellenistic world.
When did Spartan women marry?
Spartan women married between the ages of 18 and 21. Unlike other girls in Greece, who married between the ages of 13 and 14, Spartan women were married much later. Besides this, they were married to a man who was closer to them in age, since Spartans believed that a young couple could produce stronger and healthier offspring. Spartan women also had more agency in their weddings, since incompatibility and non-conception within the trial period of a wedding would result in divorce and eventual remarriage.
Did Spartan women handle government affairs?
No, Spartan women did not handle government affairs or any administrative duties within the state. While they remained responsible for their households, estates, farms, and businesses, military and statecraft duties remained restricted to men. Despite this, Spartan women often held considerable sway in the social sphere, being the guardians of Spartan customs and traditions, transmitting cultural continuity from one generation to the next.
Did Spartan women have multiple husbands?
Yes, multiple marriages were not uncommon in Sparta, and both men and women were known to take more than one partner. Men and women in Spartan society were known to have begotten children from numerous spouses as the primary purpose of marriage was procreation, based on Lycurgus’ constitution for the Spartans. Men and women were encouraged to produce as many able-bodied offspring as possible to supply the Spartan military with soldiers. Thus, both polyandry and polygamy were not uncommon in ancient Sparta.
