Document Type
Honors Project
Abstract
Vestal Virgins were high ranking members of the Roman elite. Due to the priestesses’ elevated standing, Romans made use of their inherent privileges. Through analyses of case studies from ancient authors and archaeology, I identify three ways Romans wielded Vestal power: familial connections, financial and material resources, and political sway. I end by exploring cases of crimen incesti, the crime of unchastity, which highlight all three forms. The Vestals were influential women who shared access to power in different ways. The Vestals were active participants in the social and political world of Rome.
Recommended Citation
Stanley, Elena M., "By the Power Vesta-ed in Me: The Power of the Vestal Virgins and Those Who Took Advantage of It" (2022). Classical Mediterranean and Middle East Honors Projects. 28.
https://digitalcommons.macalester.edu/classics_honors/28
Included in
Ancient History, Greek and Roman through Late Antiquity Commons, Classical Archaeology and Art History Commons, Classical Literature and Philology Commons, European History Commons, Historic Preservation and Conservation Commons, History of Gender Commons, History of Religion Commons, History of Religions of Western Origin Commons, Other Classics Commons, Other Feminist, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Commons, Other History of Art, Architecture, and Archaeology Commons, Other Religion Commons, Women's History Commons, Women's Studies Commons
© Copyright is owned by author of this document
