TED-Ed
Peta Greenfield: Who were the Vestal Virgins, and what was their job?
2017 • E61 May 30, 2017 5m
In ancient Rome, Vestal Virgins were tasked with keeping vigil over the flame of Vesta, the virgin goddess of the hearth. The flame represented two things: the continuation of Rome as a power in the world and the continuing virginity of Vesta's priestesses. But what was life really like for these Vestal Virgins? Peta Greenfield goes back in time to find out. [Directed by Kozmonot Animation Studio, narrated by Susan Zimmerman, music by Wonder Boy Audio].