Hortensia Speaks: An Authentic Voice of Resistance?

Abstract

In 42 BC Hortensia, the daughter of the orator Quintus Hortensius Hortalus, led an organised procession of elite Roman women to the tribunal of the Triumvirs in the forum, to protest against a tax on their property. Appian (BC 4.32-34) provides a lengthy account of Hortensia's speech. The substance of Hortensia's argument was that Roman women do not cause wars and should not have to pay for them. If the state were truly in danger they would not be found wanting in patriotism, but to the evils of civil war they will never willingly contribute, nor should it be asked of them. The dignity of Roman women is sustained and displayed by the property they command and they have always possessed the right to enjoy that property free from interference. The Triumvirs, by taxing the women, have departed from this custom for no better cause than their own political benefit in the current factional struggles.