Because the ancient greek artists worshiped the idea of beauty, the artwork depicts the ideals of the society, people were portrayed in an idealized, perfected manner.

An example of this are the Kore scuptures of the archaic period (600-400BCE). Kore (Greek for "young woman" or "maiden") sculptures were lifesized freestanding pieces painted with bright colors, usually in static, stiff postures and thin waisted, wearing "archaic smiles". The clothing reflects the fashions and styles of the time. Kore figures were always clothed, it was not until Aphrodite of Knidos (350 BCE) by Praxilites that a female figure was shown nude. On the other hand, it was acceptable for male statues to be nude since Greeks considered the nude male to be ideal beauty.

The subject matter for the art is based on humanity and their relation to the gods. In mythology, women were reguarded differently than in actual society. The Amazons were a powerful warrior race of women that battled the greeks, goddesses like Athena had great power and were highly respected, but actual Greek women lived in an oppressive society with few rights. Women were property of husbands and fathers, restricted to their homes and were depended upon to bear many children.

Women are portrayed in a wide range of activites in greek artwork, but the artwork is idealized, and is contradictary of the actual status of women in greek society.

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Peplos Kore 530 BCE marble height 48 in Acropolis, Athens

Wounded Amazon 450 BCE marble Rome

Varvakeion Athena 448-432 BCE Marble Athens