Final answer:
In classical civilizations, women had both positive and negative roles. Some held influential positions in religion and politics, while others were confined to domestic duties. These roles have had an impact on women today.
Step-by-step explanation:
The roles of women in classical civilizations varied, but there were both positive and negative aspects.
Positive roles:
- Some women held influential positions in religious ceremonies and were revered as priestesses.
- In ancient Greece, women played a significant role in the worship of goddesses like Athena and Aphrodite.
- Women in ancient Rome, such as Livia and Octavia, exerted behind-the-scenes political influence as the wives and mothers of powerful men.
Negative roles:
Women were often confined to domestic duties and had limited opportunities for education and career advancement.
- They were typically excluded from political participation and decision-making.
- In ancient Greece, they were considered legal minors and were under the control of their fathers or husbands.
These roles have had a lasting impact on women today, influencing societal expectations and gender norms. However, efforts for gender equality have challenged and transformed these roles over time.