Chapter 5: How I would feel in each civilization

Chapter 5: Social Inequality
I didn’t really know how to write this blog entry. I have mixed feelings about this chapter. So I’ve just decided to write how I’d feel if I lived in each of the different civilizations, with regards to social inequality.
China:


I’d probably like to live in China the most. Even if I became a slave, slavery wasn’t so widespread and it would be unlikely that I’d have to do hard labor, which I really hate. There’s still a chance that I could be born a peasant farmer, but I think that would be better than slavery. At least I get to live with my family and I get to marry who I want. If I was born a man, I’d probably try to take the civil service exam for a better life. It would be pretty hard considering I’d have to memorize all of Confucius’ teachings, but with some studying, nothing is impossible.
India:
I would not like to live in India at all. The caste system is too restrictive. And what if I’m ostracized by my jati? I didn’t know India was that harsh. What would I do if I was born an untouchable? I don’t believe in rebirth so I can't hope for a better life after this one even if I work hard. Would I live my entire life in social isolation? It sounds really scary. I don’t wanna walk around topless just because I’m deemed lower. I’d also feel really offended if a priest had to perform an entire ritual just because they shared a glass of water with me or something…
Rome:
Slavery was very widespread in Rome. If I lived here, the chances of me being a slave are very high. There’s a chance of me being raped before being enslaved. That’s horrifying. It doesn’t look too bad being a slave compared to maybe Athens though. At least I can have a job I want since no occupations are restricted (except military service). The downside is being part of the labor force. I really hate labor. It looks like a lot of it is needed in Rome. The best position for me would probably be a domestic servant. I’m not good at housework but that would be the least demeaning option for slave work. Eventually, I might be able to buy freedom if I have a good owner. And it’s great because that means automatic citizenship!
Greece
Athens:
I would not like living in Athens. The patriarchy is too strict. A woman is treated as an infertile male… and we are deemed inadequate. They even put more importance in the sperm than the egg. Both the sperm and the egg are necessary for life. Neither one is more important than the other. I’d also hate the duties I’m assigned to. I like staying inside a lot but having to do that all the time sounds very boring. You need to go out and see the world at least some days of the week. An education of only spinning and weaving… is unthinkable. I’m very lucky to have the education I have now.


Sparta:
Sparta isn’t so bad. My biggest concern would be being treated like a baby-making machine. When I was little I always told my parents I didn’t want to have kids because childbirth looked like it hurt. I’m also pretty weak physically and I’m half certain I would produce children of similar physical ability. Although they can train to get stronger, I wouldn’t want my children to feel bad because they aren’t as strong as the other children due to a genetic disadvantage.


Thank you for reading and have a wonderful day! :)

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