Greek Society

To better understand the characters in Oedipus, you need to be familiar with the society of Ancient Greece during the time that Sophocles wrote Oedipus. This will also help actors and directors to better understand the actions of the play. Where modern day American society might think an action would be cruel, for example, in Greek society it might be considered normal.

Women in Greece:

Vase painting of Greek women and men socializing

Women had their own guardian, such as a father, brother, or husband. They could own jewelery, clothing, slaves, etc., but they could not buy anything. Although able to partake in religious ceremonies, they were not allowed to vote. Girls were married shortly after puberty in arranged marriages that were meant for financial reasons and to produce heirs. Emotions had no part in marriages in Greece. Woman's role in society was to run the chores of the house and care for the children. They were expected to remain in their homes and not roam the streets. There is some evidence suggesting some women could read and write, but it was not common among the public.




Men in Greece:

All property was owned by men in Ancient Greece. This land would in turn pass down to the oldest son when a father passed and so on. Although men were married off in arranged marriages like the women, they were often married at an older age to much younger girls. They participated in social discussions and men could vote. Even as young boys, males held power over women of any age in Greek Society.

"Women in Ancient Greece." Ancient Greece. Web. 30 Oct. 2010. <http://www.ancient-greece.us/women.html>.