The Praise Of Tria Sparknotes

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Question: Why did the author choose to write about his wife on the tablet and how does the inscription defy traditional gender roles and values, especially towards women in ancient Rome?

Significance The “Praise of Turia” describes and gives insight into what life was like especially for women back in ancient Rome, as well as what was expected of them and what role in society they had and how much freedom they were allowed to diverge from traditional values. Through this, the reader can better understand the complexities of gender dynamics in ancient Rome, which in turn sheds light on broader themes of power, authority, and social hierarchy within Roman society.

Answer: The “Praise of Turia” was inscribed on a tombstone and depicts a husband’s
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Turia’s husband speaks admirably about Turia’s dutiful nature as she was very devout to her husband and ran the entire household in his absence as well as the rest of his family as seen by the fact she was willing to do anything and suffer through anything in order to keep them safe. The author states that Turia had “shown the same attention to her mother as she did to her own parents, and has taken care to secure an equally peaceful life for her as she did for her own people,” (Sources, 377). In ancient Rome, women didn’t have much influence; “All women were under the manus (legal authority) of some man and generally were expected to marry and assume control over a household” (AMC, …show more content…
For example, when she took legal action against her husband’s creditors in order to demonstrate her willingness to assert her rights and interests, which were typically only reserved for men, “Women lacked any voice in public life and were excluded from participating in political affairs or decision-making processes” (“The Constitution of the Roman Republic” 3/20/24). The inscription states that “You begged for my life when I was abroad—it was your courage that urged you to this step—and because of your entreaties I was shielded by the clemency of those against whom you marshaled your words. Whatever you said was always said with un- daunted courage” (Sources, 377). This assertion of agency defies society expectations of women, as well as emphasizes Turia’s dedication, devotion and loyalty to protect her family, even if it means personal risk.

Also, Turia’s participation in public affairs, such as supporting her husband’s political career, as well as participating in religious ceremonies, highlights her very active role in society and the broader community. Roman women were typically confined to private life; “the most fitting place for a woman was at home spinning wool to make clothing for her family” (AMC, 348). but Turia’s engagement and participation in these public activities

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