A bem do rigor, as figuras femininas de relevo na antiguidade, na filosofia ou na política, não são, nem muitas, nem conhecidas. Aspasia é um exemplo….
“Described as one of the most beautiful and educated women of her era, Aspasia became the consort of Pericles, leader of democratic Athens. Their relationship caused scandal in the male-dominated world of Classical Athens, not only because the couple remained unmarried, but because of her determination to be treated as an equal. Mixing with some the greatest minds of her generation, and at the very center of Athenian political life, Aspasia’s story is unique among the women of her time…”
Aspasia ‘First Lady of Athens’
Aspasia arrived in Athens probably around the middle 440s BC, and soon after achieved instant fame through her association with Pericles, the city’s democratic leader. Divorcing his wife, who he left with two sons, he took up residence with Aspasia setting tongues wagging all over the city.
Still more upsetting for Athenian traditionalists was the great respect their city’s leader showed to his lover. Women were meant to be unseen and unheard, yet Pericles consulted Aspasia as an equal, made no effort to prevent her mixing with important men, and openly showed her great affection.
Independently minded, witty, and with a gifted intellect even the philosopher Socrates acknowledged as being among the best of the city, Aspasia enjoyed a life of constant stimulation and excitement. No doubt with her help and encouragement, Pericles made Athens the greatest city of its day, the very epicenter of learning, art, politics and achievement. Just to walk around it was described as an education in itself.
“It is considered that she died near 400 BC cause the historians argue that she died before Socrates who died in 399 BC. Some historians think that her death must have been painful that’s why no contemporary author mentions it.
Aspasia was rumoured to be behind of many activities of Pericles. This shows how influential and important personality she was for the Athenian society. Some authors say that she taught Pericles rhetoric and that she prepared some of his famous speeches.Socrates was an admirer of Aspasia and that was proved by some of his advice to people were he is quoting Aspasia and his consultations to people to go and seek advice from her.As an ancient figure it is not unjust that she became equal in fame with the female poet Sappho.”
