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The Family Home
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This is the house of a rich Greek family. It was built of mud bricks with small windows and a tiled roof. There was only one door. The furniture was very simple although some floors might have mosaics. Grain, oil, and wine from the owners farm were stored in the house.
In Athens, the women spent most of their lives in the home. There would be an open courtyard in the centre where they would work at their spinning and carry out other household jobs. They would also cook with the help of slave girls.
Men spent most of their time outside the house. In the evenings they might bring men friends home for a meal but their wives and daughters were not allowed to join them.
(A) FAMILY ROOM
Hestia, the goddess of the home and family, watched over this room. Here mothers would play with their children around a fire lit in Hestias honour.
(B) KITCHEN
Cooking was done over an open fire in earthenware pots, often by slaves.
(C) ALTAR AND COURTYARD
Every house would have its own altar in the courtyard. Sacrifices were made to favourite gods.
(D) BEDROOM
Beds were covered with brightly coloured blankets. Clothes were stored in chests.
(E) MEN EATING
Men would lie on couches to eat. Their food would be served by slave girls.
(F) BOARD GAMES
The Greeks had board games where a dice was thrown and counters moved. Children also played 'heads or tails' with pieces of painted pottery.
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Previous:
Back
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Book:
The Greeks
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Section:
Spotlight on Ancient Greeks
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Chapter:
The Family Home
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