Breastfeeding in Ancient Greece: between Myth and History

Abstract

The main function of women in ancient Greece was to be wives and mothers. In fact, marriage was the essential step to bring to the world legitimate citizens, an essential element to perpetuate the socio-political system. After childbirth, which implied a high risk for the life of both the mother and her offspring, breastfeeding was the second link that fostered affection and respect in the maternal-filial relationship. Based on the premise that in societies of antiquity religion is inseparable from the personal and public life of individuals, it is intended to show how breastfeeding is made visible in the divine world.