Plutarch's Life Of Numa

In Ancient Rome, much emphasis was placed on priests and priestess, who were largely involved in not just religious affairs but political affairs. Much like how in modern times priest have their female counterparts, nuns, during this era existed priestess who were called Vestal Virgins. Much like the priest, the Vestal Virgins were held in much esteem and considered vital in Roman society. However, although they were revered and valued, the Vestal Virgins were forced into their profession and subjected to cruel and unthinkable punishments for breaking their vows. Much of the knowledge that is known of these virgins comes from Plutarch’s Life of Numa, where he discusses how they become Vestal Virgins and the consequences they face if they are …show more content…
Six girls, around the age of six and ten, were selected and trained. Plutarch describes this training process, writing, “A period of thirty years chastity was laid down for the sacred virgins by the king: in the first ten years they learn their duties; in the second they carry out what they have learnt; in the third they, in their turn, teach duties to others.” It is true that after the virgins finished their thirty years, they could leave the priesthood, but nonetheless, forcing thirty years of service onto someone is extreme; especially when said person is just a child. It is as if the unfortunate girls who are selected by the king lose out on their childhood. The Vestal Virgins were also victims of many ruthless punishments. If the virgins are guilty of any offense, they were beaten, sometimes even naked, by the pontifex maximus. Even more merciless, a virgin decided to lose her virginity, she was buried alive. The offender, before her burial, was processed throughout the town in a litter until they reach the point of internment. At this place, there exist a small chamber, stocked with a lamp, some bread, water, milk, and oil. Plutarch comments on this, saying, “[it is] as if they were trying to escape the charge of starving to death a person consecrated to the greatest services of the gods.” Not only are the virgins put to death, but it is slow and psychologically harming ending. …show more content…
However, the career is more damaging than beneficial. The forced lifestyle and strict way of life would make many fear and dread being chosen by the king, although the title is so prestigious. It is true that the virgins were of a higher class, and thus privileged, but in a contradicting manner, they also are oppressed by the rigid nature of their