Roman Women and Their Mythology :: Ancient Rome Roman History

Roman Wo men and Their MythologyThroughout the ages myths, legends and fairytales have been used to teach people basic moral and educational lessons. For example, mothers and fathers use the childhood story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears to teach their children that stealing and snooping is wrong. In the end, Goldilocks was either eaten or she ran away, depending on your bloodthirsty nature. By victimization this comparison between myths and reality the Romans were able to control their women, and to discourage them from vain, romantic and adulterous actions. Women themselves had a very low place in Roman society, and could be bought and sold like cattle or slaves. Despite their low legal status, women had immense power and influence over their fathers, brothers and husbands. These myths and legends were societys guidebook, which provided women with a manual about limit conduct. Despite being a guidebook for all women to use, the Romans couldnt simply say, Look what happened to t hat mythical person. You shouldnt do what she did. This would have led to a very depressing and sluggish set of myths, so the Romans spruced them up a bit. They portrayed both good and bad pictures of women, including the Goddesses. Some of these stories were funny and some sad, but every single unrivalled had a lesson which could be learnt and acted upon. For example, the Amazons were a legendary race of warrior women who despised all men. They killed all the male babies that were born, and kept the female ones. In fact, it was said that the Amazons used the men from a nearby village as sex slaves, so that they wouldnt die out. One day, Hercules came along, and wanted to borrow the Queens belt. Hippolyte, being a woman and all, fell crazily in love with Hercules and readily agreed. But the other Amazons werent impressed, and thinking that Hercules was trying to kill their Queen, charged towards him. Hercules seized Hippolyte and slew her, then ran away with the belt. Needless to say zipper such(prenominal) else was said about the Amazons. This story was used to teach the folly of women who thought they could survive without men. They were dependant on the nearby village, and werent very well organized. They were much better off sticking to their own place in society. But as I said not all depictions were bad. Some were quite nice.