Aspasia of Miletus (c. 470-400 BCE) was an influential figure in ancient Athens, best known as the companion of Pericles, the prominent statesman.
Originally from the city of Miletus in Asia Minor, Aspasia moved to Athens, where she became known for her intellect and rhetoric. She likely played a role as a teacher and advisor in philosophical and political circles, attracting some of the era’s leading figures, including Socrates.
Despite the limited roles typically available to women in Athenian society, her partnership with Pericles and her reputed influence on his policies allowed her an unusual level of visibility and influence. She was said to have advised him on public and political matters and even contributed to his speeches.
Aspasia’s salon-like gatherings brought together philosophers, thinkers, and political leaders, earning her both admiration and criticism from her contemporaries. Her presence and influence in Athens were controversial, and she was often subject to public scrutiny, facing charges of impiety.
Although her life remains partially obscured by historical biases, Aspasia’s legacy endures as a symbol of intellectual and social power in the ancient world.
– Name: Aspasia
– Born: c. 470 BCE, Miletus, Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey)
– Died: c. 400 BCE, Athens, Greece
– Age at Death: Around 70 years
– Job Title: Intellectual, Advisor, and Philosopher’s Companion
READ MORE: Myths & Legends: The Gods Of Ancient Greece.