Social Classes:
1. Noble Women: Women of the noble class, especially those related to the emperor, enjoyed many privileges and held positions of influence. They could own property, engage in trade, and had the right to divorce.
2. Common Women: Commoner women had fewer privileges compared to noble women, but they still had certain rights and responsibilities. They could own and inherit property, participate in trade, and had some legal protections.
Age and Marriage:
1. Childhood and Education: Girls received education in crafts, household management, and religious rituals. They were expected to learn skills that would prepare them for their roles as wives and mothers.
2. Marriage Age: The average marriage age for women was around 15-17 years, but some noblewomen could marry at a younger age to form political alliances.
3. Polygamy: While polygamy was practiced among the Aztecs, it was primarily for noblemen and wealthy men. Commoner women typically had one husband.
Treatment and Roles:
1. Wife and Mother: The primary roles of women were as wives and mothers. They were responsible for household management, raising children, and contributing to household economy through weaving, cooking, and other crafts.
2. Priestesses and Healers: Some women became priestesses or healers, holding respected positions within the religious and medical spheres.
3. Legal Rights: Women had some legal rights, including the ability to own and sell property, inherit from their husbands, and seek divorce under specific circumstances.
4. Tribute and Labor: Aztec women were expected to contribute to the community through obligatory labor and the payment of tribute, which could include goods like textiles and food.
Challenges and Restrictions:
1. Gender Roles and Expectations: Women were expected to conform to gender roles prescribed by society, which limited their opportunities and autonomy.
2. Limitations in Leadership: Women could not hold high-ranking political or military positions, which were reserved for men.
3. Violence: Aztec society had instances of violence against women, including domestic violence and punishment for certain offenses.
Overall, ancient Aztec women had varying degrees of status, rights, and treatment depending on their social class, age, and marital status. While they faced limitations and challenges, especially in comparison to men, they also played important roles in society, contributing to household economy, religious practices, and the functioning of the Aztec Empire.