Final answer:
Throughout history, women have been present and played active roles in ritual worship and ancestral veneration in various cultures. This is supported by historical and archaeological evidence, such as their participation in the Korybantic Mysteries and the presence of priestesses in ancient Greece.
Step-by-step explanation:
The presence of women present during ritual worship and ancestor veneration is a complex subject, as it varies greatly across different cultures and historical contexts. In some cultures, women play a central role in these practices. Historical evidence suggests that in ancient societies, there was significant female involvement in rituals. For instance, archaeological remains point to matrilineal societies where women's roles were on par with men's in the Neolithic era.
In the classic Greek context, for example, women also participated in religious activities. Inscriptions from the fourth and second century BC mention women participating in the Korybantic Mysteries, where both men and women were allowed, and priestesses performed specific roles in the ritual. Even Plato acknowledges the role of 'priestesses,' indicating the involvement of women in religious life.
In conclusion, the evidence indicates that women have indeed been present and active participants in ritual worship and the veneration of ancestors across various cultures and historical periods.