Abstract

Fourteen essays examine gender, social status and social and sexual roles in the ancient world. Archaeological art art historical essays look at the evidence for male and female social status in the Mycenean period, at Etruscan sarcophagi and tomb paintings, at Roman sarcophagi and their mythological iconography, and at the family in late antique art. More strictly historical essays look at the presentation of Cornelia and the career of Antonia minor, whilst essays focusing on gendered religious roles look at boys in the cult of the great Goddess on Roman Cyprus, at the priestess Theano in the Iliad, at the vestal virgins and at gnosticism. Finally essays on sexuality look at social class and homosexuality in ancient Athens and at vase paintings of satyrs harassing women.