games were attended by unmarried women. The women were allowed to compete in footraces on short tracks. They wore tunics, while the men competed naked. Women who won the races did not receive the same honors as men. Men received public honors and a lifetime supply of food, paid for by the public. (Kishlansky 53) It seemed as though all men did not believe women had rights. There were some men who did believe women were more than housewives and bearers of children. Haemon states Nor wish to be clever enough to prove you wrong, Though all men might not think the same as you do. (Beatty 71) In a Euripide tragedy a women described her place in society. We women are the most unfortunate creatures. . . child. (Kishlansky 76) In many other plays the main characters were women. This may suggest women played a more profound role in society than portrayed by law.(Kagan 53) Even some of the wisest men were blinded to the rights of women. When Socrates was sentenced to death he had sent the women away. After he swallowed poison many of the male watchers began crying. Really my friends, what a way to behave! Why, that was my main reason for sending away the women, to prevent this sort of disturbance; (Spielvogel 96) Creon agreed that women lacked control of their emotions Despicable coward! No more will than a woman! (Beatty 72) The women of ancient Greek times suffered many hardships. They were only considered citizens for the sake of marriage and other duties to help men. They were considered evil and better off invisible. There were a few supporters of women. In many plays women were depicted as strong willed people. This leaves the likelihood that women were perceived as more than servers. It astonishes me to see some of these traditional views are still held, but luckily by a very small population....
