12. Of the Guardianship of Women among the Romans. The Spirit of the Laws | ||
The Roman laws subjected women to a perpetual guardianship, except they were under cover and subject to the authority of a husband. [27] This guardianship was given to the nearest of the male relatives; and by a vulgar expression [28] it appears they were very much confined. This was proper for a republic, but not at all necessary in a monarchy. [29]
That the women among the ancient Germans were likewise under a perpetual tutelage appears from the different codes of the Laws of the Barbarians. [30] This custom was communicated to the monarchies founded by those people; but was not of long duration.
12. Of the Guardianship of Women among the Romans. The Spirit of the Laws | ||