Dorian Women: Study Questions

WLGR 76, 97, 98, 99.

1. Compare the value of the penalty required of a free man who rapes a free person, and a free man who rapes a serf. (Gortyn Law Code WLGR 76).

2. How are the societies of Sparta and Athens contrasted by ancient writers?

3. What is considered to be particularly virtuous about Spartan women?

4. What do you think is the chief factor influencing the status of Spartan women?

5. What has been the effect of waging war on the status of women in modern times?

Cartledge

1. What are the special problems with the evidence on Sparta?

2. What are Aristotle's criticisms of Spartan women?

3. How does Cartledge criticize Aristotle?

4. Were Spartan wives "liberated"?