The Origins of Female Marriage

There were usually no established age limits for marriage, although with the exception of political marriages, waiting until childbearing age was considered proper decorum. A man chose his wife based on three things, the proics or dowry, her presumed fertility, and her domestic skills such as weaving. The mature suitor would negotiate on his own behalf with his future bride's kyrios, which means master,. This person was responsible for her protection, maintenance, and general welfare.