Parents usually arranged marriages, considering factors like social standing, family alliances, and economic interests. Betrothals were often determined well in advance, sometimes even during childhood. Once a betrothal agreement was made, the groom's family would provide a bride-price to the bride's family as compensation for the loss of their daughter's services and to secure the marriage alliance.
The marriage ceremony itself was typically held at the groom's house. It involved several rituals, including an exchange of vows and the sharing of a common meal. After the ceremony, the bride would move to the groom's household and become part of his extended family.
In the context of Ancient Greece, women had limited legal rights and were expected to focus primarily on domestic responsibilities, including household management, childrearing, and weaving. Their main role was to produce and raise legitimate heirs for their husbands and manage the household effectively.
It's important to note that the status and treatment of women varied in different periods of Ancient Greek history and that regional variations existed. While early marriage and male dominance were prevalent, some later reforms aimed to improve the rights and autonomy of women, particularly in certain aspects of Athenian law.