The Vestal Virgins In The Roman Empire

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Recommended: Development of the Roman empire

As a whole, the glory days of Rome are remembered in popular imagination as an era of prosperity and social growth. A significant component to the history of the Roman Empire is the variety of Pagan denominations that emerged with the blending of different peoples and beliefs. One of the more prominent cults within the Roman state was the cult of Vesta, whose namesake goddess was tended to by her following of priestesses. These maidens, known as the Vestal Virgins, are remembered in historical imagination as soft, feminine beings that spent the majority of their lives within the Roman forum. However, the image of the Vestal Virgin is one that lends itself to a strong and dignified woman; a woman who relinquished her body for the prosperity of the Roman state as an attendant for the goddess Vesta.
Truly, then, these Vestal priestesses were more than just docile temple inhabitants; they wielded an authority and presence that rivaled the very figureheads of the Roman Empire. Her political, social, and economic privileges extended beyond the scope of the average inhabitant of Rome, implying an elevated status that earned her special powers and respect from the public. The Vestal Virgins took on a greater role in society than mere worshippers giving service to a major pagan goddess; they were the …show more content…

This flame was symbolically revered as the fuel of the Roman state, having supported the empire and fortifying morale within the public; unchaste celebrants would not only uproot the virtue of the cult, but that of the empire as well. Indeed, giving reverence to their patron goddess and kindling the holy fire were the main concerns for the Vestal Virgins, but their duties were not limited to the religious sector. Though this group of celebrants consisted solely of women, their daily lives and responsibilities were overseen by the chief

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