Roman Women - Wool and Spinning - A lecture

This talk is a discussion of the symbolism of spinning and wool in the Classical world, with an emphasis on Roman women and the household. We’ll consider where spinning and wool fit into popular myths and how this reflects the importance of sheep, wool, and spinning in the general economy. The main part of the discussion looks at spinning as women’s work, and the significance of spinning and household economy – not only the practicalities of the task, but also the symbolism of spinning (and weaving) as representative of domestic harmony.
Dr Carey Fleiner is currently Senior Lecturer in Classical (Roman) History at the University of Winchester.
In addition to her interests in all things Roman history, Carey is accomplished at various textile arts.
- She learnt embroider and crochet whilst still in single digits, and she has been spinning and weaving for about 30 years.
- She has exhibited her award-winning work in many fibre shows mainly in the United States including the Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival.
- She is very keen on the history of spinning and weaving, especially in Classical Antiquity, and in practice, spinning on the charka, wool-combing, and working with exotic fibres

Host or Publisher Brighton and Hove Textiles Art Group