WORLD HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -At the head of Roman family life was the oldest living male, called the “paterfamilias, ‘’ or “father of the family.” He looked after the family’s business affairs and property and could perform religious rites on their behalf. The paterfamilias had absolute rule over his household and children.

Detailed explanation-2: -Once married, the wife became a part of her husband’s family and gained the title of materfamilias, or “mother of a household". A wife held the same property rights as a daughter and, therefore, could not receive her husband’s property until his death. Once a wife, a woman would quickly also become a mother.

Detailed explanation-3: -The social structure of ancient Rome was based on heredity, property, wealth, citizenship and freedom. It was also based around men: women were defined by the social status of their fathers or husbands. Women were expected to look after the houses and very few had any real independence.

Detailed explanation-4: -The basic units of Roman society were households and families. Households included the head (usually the father) of the household, pater families (father of the family), his wife, children, and other relatives. In the upper classes, slaves and servants were also part of the household.