In the times of the ancient Greeks, specifically during the periods Archaic, Classical and Hellenistic, the men and women of Greece were in a period of transition. Greece was home to some of the first great minds in recorded history. Some overthrew governments and others stimulated intellect among the masses. All of these minds together were instrumental in not only shaping their world but served as a blueprint for new rising powers. In the book Spartan Women by Sarah B. Pomeroy the lives of women in a place of great military and social importance are depicted. The way in which women are valued in Sparta makes this book enthralling and the lives of these women much more unique then the rest of women of their time. There are two major themes; these themes include the quality of education for women in many walks throughout her life, as well as the social aspects of gender roles. These themes are expressed and explained for women of all socioeconomic status.
Out of all the Greek tribes of ancient Greece, the life of the Spartans are of the lest
documented and therefore the most unknown to us. However, it is very evident that women were encouraged to develop their intellect. Girls from the start of their lives were given a good education in both the arts and athletics. Pomeroy writes “Only at Sparta did the state prescribe an educational program for both boys and girls beginning in childhood.”(Pomeroy, 3) also that “There is more evidence, both textual and archaeological, for athletic activity then for any other aspect of Spartan women’s lives.” (Pomeroy, 12)
Spartan Women gives the reader a closer look at what life was like for some of the most socially liberated women of their time. This book would be very useful in it field of study that perhaps is in some way is related to a feminist topic, not to say that many other sources should be not be viewed as well. This source was written by a highly credited author in her field; the book it self is full of useful information.
Gender, another large issue in which Pomeroy concentrates, is focused on the husband’s and the wife’s role in the community.
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