Women of the Byzantine Empire: Empresses, Scholars, and Saints

The lives of women in Byzantine society were shaped by a complex interplay of tradition, law, religion, and social class. While patriarchal norms dictated many aspects of daily life, women were far from passive figures confined to the background. They were active participants in family, economic, religious, and even political spheres, albeit often within carefully defined boundaries.

Byzantine society, rooted in Roman law and Christian values, placed a strong emphasis on the family unit. Women were expected to marry, bear children, and manage the household. Marriage was often arranged and served both familial and economic purposes. Despite these constraints, women played an essential role within the home. They managed domestic affairs, oversaw servants, and made decisions related to household finances. In wealthier families, women were often educated and could own property, inherit land, and engage in business, though these privileges were more limited for lower-class women.

The public lives of women were more restricted. Elite women were expected to remain within the private sphere, rarely appearing in public without a veil or escort. However, these ideals were not always followed strictly, especially in urban centers like Constantinople. Markets, churches, and festivals provided spaces where women could move more freely. Lower-class women, in particular, had greater visibility in public life, often working as vendors, midwives, and artisans to support their families.