Topic > Xenophon of Athens: Student of Socrates - 862

Xenophon (Ischomachus) was born in Athens in 428 BC into a fairly wealthy family of an Athenian knight, thus guaranteeing him access to some privileges of the aristocracy of ancient Greece. Before his death, Xenophon was exiled from Athens, most likely because he fought under the Spartan king Agesilaus II against Athens at the Battle of Coronea (however, there may have been leading causes, such as his support for Socrates, as well as the fact that he had served with the Persians). His date of death is uncertain, however today it is generally accepted that he died in 354 BC Xenophon was a Greek historian, soldier, mercenary, philosopher, contemporary and admirer of Socrates. He is known for his writings on history, preserving the sayings of Socrates and descriptions of life in ancient Greece and the Persian Empire. Additionally, he wrote a book Xenophon's Oeconomicus (The Estate Manager) which places emphasis on the internal affairs of ancient Greece. This essay will focus on the roles that Xenophon believes women should play in society. Since the beginning of time, throughout the history of humanity, women have been relegated away from social life and Greece has not been an exclusion. Women could not own any property, except their own clothes, jewelry, and their own slaves; the dowry, because she was in total control of her husband and belonged to him; and enter any translation. Furthermore, although women had the right to be citizens of Athem, but only for the purpose of marriage and procreation, however, in Athem, woman still played an important role in managing the household. And the reason for this was the belief that women were created by God so weak that they would stay at home and take care of posterity, resources and slaves, unlike men, who were born to surpass themselves… middle of paper ... ...in any case, the husband must teach his wife basic skills and control her behavior. And from Xenophon's conversation it is clear that he committed himself completely to this process. In his book, where he describes his conversation with Philesias, it can be seen that Ischomachus was always teaching and giving advice, in times when his wife only asked questions and obeyed him carefully. In conclusion it is important to say that Xenophon was convinced that women must play a very important role in cleaning. They should take care of posterity and slaves, know the location of all the goods brought by the husband, presenting themselves in an unadorned and tasteful manner. However, the greatest irony is that Xenophon, who strives for well-being, respect and a high status in a society, was completely ruled by his young wife and, in some cases, was her personal servant..