ABSTRACT
Holy Mother Maria, who gave birth to humanity and is regarded as “a bridge between Heaven and earth,” has paved a new understanding of woman’s position in society. The focus here will not be on noble female representatives, rather on women of lower social rungs. Ordinary women held a leading place in the family and household, although they still were subordinated to men. The need for “social hygiene” determined the role of women in society: simultaneously subordinated to men, but leading the “spirit” of the family, ensuring their well being, educating children when possible, etc. The example of ordinary women and their everyday status is considered, citing examples of Macrina, the sister of St Gregory of Nyssa, the mother of great Byzantine philosopher Michael Psellus, the essays of Nicholas Kavasillas on Holy Mother Maria, etc. in order to show the understanding of woman’s position to the early Church fathers as well as in the late authors in their supportive yet “hidden” leadership role in Byzantine society.
