Final answer:
The qualities of a wife in historical contexts varied by culture and status, with expectations focusing on financial provision, physical strength, domestic roles, and social behavior. Women's roles were deeply influenced by their marital status, affecting their legal rights and social standing. While most women were confined to their husband's household, some, like artist Robusti, gained independent recognition.
Step-by-step explanation:
Throughout different cultures and historical periods, the qualities expected of a wife have varied greatly, with their roles ranging from managing household affairs to upholding social status through their behavior and lineage. In wealthier households, daughters would be typically prepared for marriage at a young age, with the aim of securing a husband capable of providing financial stability. The qualities of a wife were largely shaped by the socio-economic status of the family and the cultural norms of the time. For example, in Sparta, women were expected to maintain physical strength and independence, while in other cultures they were seen as their husband's property and their duties were confined to the household.
Widows faced harsh conditions, sometimes resorting to acts like sati or living in austerity. The marital status of a woman significantly determined her social role and legal rights, and women of higher social status could sometimes exert more influence in marriage arrangements through their dowries. Middle-class wives typically did not work for wages and focused on domestic roles, while women from lower classes relied heavily on their husbands' status. In some instances, like that of artist Robusti, women could achieve recognition independent of their marital status. Ultimately, the expected qualities of a wife were informed by a complex interplay of legal, social, and economic factors.