Divine Women Season 1 Episode 3 Episode 3
- April 11, 2012
- 48 min
Divine Women is a historical documentary series that explores the roles and influence of women in ancient civilizations. In season 1, episode 3, we are introduced to the women of Ancient Greece.
The episode begins by highlighting how women were not considered citizens in Ancient Greece and were denied many rights and opportunities. Despite this, women found ways to assert their influence and leave their mark on Greek society.
We learn about the poet Sappho, who lived on the island of Lesbos and wrote poems celebrating love and beauty. Her poetry was considered scandalous by some and was almost lost to history, but fragments of her work have been preserved and continue to inspire readers today.
Next, we meet the priestesses of the oracle at Delphi. These women were respected and revered for their ability to communicate with the gods and give prophetic advice. They held significant sway over political and military decisions and were consulted by leaders from all over Greece.
The episode then shifts its focus to the city-state of Athens, where we meet the philosopher and mathematician Hypatia. She was one of the few women in Athens who received a formal education and became a respected scholar and teacher. However, her outspoken views and refusal to conform to societal expectations ultimately led to her tragic death.
The episode also introduces us to other remarkable women of Ancient Greece, including the playwright Euripides and the notorious courtesan Aspasia, who was a close associate of Athenian leader Pericles.
Throughout the episode, we see how women in Ancient Greece found ways to subvert patriarchal expectations and assert their influence. Whether through their poetry, religious leadership, or intellectual pursuits, these women left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and inform modern audiences.
Overall, Divine Women season 1 episode 3 provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives of women in Ancient Greece and highlights their profound impact on the shaping of western civilization.