Religion and The Social Status Of Women in Pompeii

Authors

Molly Caitlyn Tittemore, College of the Holy CrossFollow

Document Type

Presentation

Publication Date

12-15-2025

First Advisor

Ann Glennie

Department

Classics

Abstract

This presentation explores the function of priestesses in Pompeii with a particular emphasis on both priestesses dedicated to the Imperial Cult and elite priestesses. Religious activity in Pompeii served as a way for wealthy women to tap into their potent social networks provided to them through their male relatives and exert significant influence in the community in the absence of political power. Additionally, worship in the Imperial Cult enabled priestesses to tie themselves to the political establishment of Rome and exhibit “proper” Roman political values in religious spaces. This presentation relates these ideas to the modern conception of religion, emphasizing the inextricable link between politics, society, and religion.

Recommended Citation

Tittemore, Molly Caitlyn, "Religion and The Social Status Of Women in Pompeii" (2025). Classics Department Student Scholarship. 1.
https://crossworks.holycross.edu/clas_student_scholarship/1