Menstrual Blood: Uses, Values, and Controls in Ancient Rome

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to examine the positive and negative properties of menstrual blood in Ancient Rome and its related uses. Building on such premises, I go on to explore the cultural practices involving this ambivalent substance. I argue that menstrual blood and its powers were manipulated to reinforce male order and state control over women’s bodies, becoming an instrument justifying the enactment of new rules to control Roman women. On the other hand, far from pushing away women from public and sacred spaces, the powers of menstruation contributed to strengthen their integration into the life of the city.