Reading Classical Literature:

 Ancient History of Women

Reading classical literature is part of a classical education.

But, not all ancient classical literature is wholesome reading for your entire family. Considering that some historians have written about how Cleopatra ordered dissection of her pregnant slave girls so that their embryos could be studied.

Cleopatra and Obstetrics The details surrounding this part of history are inappropriate classical literature for young children.

On the other hand, classical literature of ancient Roman history that recounts the stories of mothers who were instructed in medicine in their own homes and used that knowledge to care for their households, slaves, and others, would be appropriate literature for children. This literature could serve as a spring board into other aspects of family life.

“ Roman woman were instructed in medicine; they cared for their households, slaves, and others dependent upon the public.”  Citation here.

Reading good classical literature that is age appropriate will lead any family to explore many new subjects together. 

For more on Ancient Roman Medicine from Homer to Vesalius, visit Antiqua Medicina