Meaning: The quote "A woman's greatest glory is to be little talked about by men, whether for good or ill" is attributed to the ancient Greek statesman Pericles. It reflects the societal norms and expectations of women in ancient Greece and provides insight into the role of women in public discourse during that time.

Pericles, who was a prominent figure in Athenian politics during the 5th century BC, was known for his influential speeches and his role in shaping the democratic government of Athens. The quote attributed to him suggests that women's virtue and worth are best demonstrated when they are not the subject of public discussion or gossip, particularly by men.

In the context of ancient Greek society, women were generally confined to the domestic sphere and had limited opportunities for public participation. The quote reflects the prevailing belief that a woman's value was closely tied to her reputation and the perception of her by men. Being "little talked about" implied that a woman was modest, discreet, and not the subject of scandal or controversy.

The quote also reveals the power dynamics between men and women in ancient Greece. It implies that men were the primary arbiters of a woman's reputation and that a woman's glory was dependent on the opinions and judgments of men. This reflects the patriarchal nature of ancient Greek society, where men held significant authority and influence over women's lives and social standing.

Furthermore, the quote suggests that a woman's virtue was defined by her ability to avoid both positive and negative attention from men. This expectation placed the burden of maintaining virtue and modesty squarely on women, reinforcing the idea that their worth was contingent on their behavior and reputation in the eyes of men.

It is important to consider the historical and cultural context in which Pericles made this statement. Ancient Greece was a society where gender roles and social norms were distinctly defined, and women were expected to conform to certain standards of behavior and conduct. While the quote may seem outdated and patriarchal by modern standards, it provides valuable insight into the attitudes and beliefs about women held by influential figures in ancient Greek society.

In conclusion, the quote "A woman's greatest glory is to be little talked about by men, whether for good or ill" attributed to Pericles reflects the societal norms and expectations of women in ancient Greece. It underscores the limited agency and influence that women had in public discourse and highlights the patriarchal dynamics that shaped their lives. Understanding the historical context is crucial to interpreting the significance of this quote and recognizing its implications for the status of women in ancient Greek society.