General Info Flashcards
What was the average age for a Roman girl to get married?
13 or 14
What was the average age for a Roman girl to marry?
About thirteen or fourteen
This reflects the cultural norms of the time regarding marriage age.
At what age did men usually marry in ancient Rome?
Late teens or early twenties
This indicates a typical age range for men in Roman society.
Who typically chose the husband for a Roman girl?
Her father or guardian
This highlights the patriarchal nature of Roman marriage customs.
What law existed regarding a girl’s consent to marriage?
If the girl did not agree, the marriage could not take place
Although law existed, social pressures often made it difficult for girls to refuse.
What is a dowry?
A payment made by the bride’s family to the husband
This payment could be in money or property or both.
What was the purpose of the betrothal ceremony in Roman marriage?
To make a promise of marriage and exchange gifts
The ceremony involved both families and served as a formal agreement.
What was exchanged during the betrothal ceremony?
Gifts and a ring
The ring was placed on the third finger of the girl’s left hand.
What belief was associated with the third finger of the left hand in Roman culture?
A nerve ran directly from this finger to the heart
This belief added significance to the ring placement during the betrothal.
What followed the betrothal ceremony?
A party
This celebration involved family and friends as witnesses.
