Men

Men had a much better life in Ancient Greece than women. Only men could be full citizens. Only men made the important decisions. Normally, only men fought in armies, took part in sports and met in public.

Women

Spartan women were taught reading and writing and skills to protect themselves in battle. They had more freedom than women and girls living in Athens. As well as looking after the house, making clothes

Women in Athens were taught skills they would need to run a home such as cooking and weaving. They were expected to look after the home, make the clothes, and bear children.

Roles of Men, Women, and Children 

Slaves

Only in the poorest homes were women expected to carry out all the duties by herself. Most homes had female slaves who cooked cleaned and collected fresh water every day.

There were also male slaves. Their responsibilities included protecting the home and tutoring male children.  

Marriage

Girls had to do exactly as their father told them and this included marrying the man their father chose for them.

Even when married, a women was not free. She had to do as her husband wished. She was not allowed out on her own and was not often seen by people other than her own family.