Athenian Women Seize Power Under Lysistrata’s Leadership, Leaving Athenian Men in Shock

The long-running Peloponnesian War between Athens and Sparta has finally pushed women into action. Led by Lysistrata, Athenian women declared, "We create life, while you squander the treasury," and seized control of the Acropolis. The women involved in the movement also sent envoys to other cities, including those allied with the Peloponnesian League, urging women across Greece to join them in their fight for peace.
Initially, the lack of support from women in certain regions—especially from Acharnai, a place known for its anti-war stance—disheartened Lysistrata and her followers. However, those who did arrive in solidarity lifted their spirits, reinforcing their determination.

Lysistrata Speaks for the Movement

Advocating for peace instead of war, Lysistrata addressed the people and declared the goals of their movement:

"In the early days of the war, we women knew our place and submitted to your every decision. You silenced us, and we obeyed. But did we approve of what you did? No. We saw clearly the foolishness of your choices. Many times, we learned of your reckless decisions from the corners of our homes. Our hearts bled, yet we smiled and asked, 'What has been decided about peace in today’s assembly?'
Our husbands would snap at us, 'That is none of your business!' And we would stay silent. Yet when we learned of particularly disastrous choices, we pleaded, 'Oh, husband, how could you do something so mad?' But you looked down on us and scolded, 'Stick to your weaving, women! War is men’s business!'

You led us all into ruin, yet we had no right to advise you. And then, you yourselves began to cry out: 'Are there no real men left in this land?' And the answer you received was: 'No, there are no men left in this land!'
That is when we women came together and decided to save Greece. Could we wait any longer? No. Now, it is our turn to speak, and yours to listen. If you come to your senses and heed our wisdom, we will set things right."

— (Lysistrata, Aristophanes)

The Men’s Attempt to Reclaim the Acropolis Fails

Outraged by the women's actions, a group of men gathered to reclaim the Acropolis by force, but their efforts proved unsuccessful. Frustrated, they turned to Probulos, demanding intervention. However, even when Probulos ordered his soldiers to storm the Acropolis, the attempt failed, as the women successfully defended their position.
Though there were moments of doubt among some women, Lysistrata managed to maintain unity within the movement.
Eventually, the women forced Athenian and Spartan delegates to negotiate a peace agreement, successfully ending their protest. With the war brought to a close, the women celebrated their victory with komos processions, leaving the Acropolis to return to their homes.