The Vestals were a public priesthood of six women devoted to the cultivation of Vesta, goddess of the hearth of the Roman state and its vital flame. A girl chosen to be a Vestal achieved unique religious distinction, public status and privileges, and could exercise considerable political influence. Upon entering her office, a Vestal was emancipated from her father's authority. In archaic Roman society, these priestesses were the only women not required to be under the legal guardianship of a man, instead answering directly to the Pontifex Maximus. COUNT 5
QSN1 How many Vestals were there in Rome? ANS1 six QSN2 Of what was Vesta the goddess? ANS2 hearth QSN3 Of what were the Vestals protectors? ANS3 vital flame QSN4 What was the benefit of being a Vestal? ANS4 political influence QSN5 To whom did the Vestal answer? ANS5 Pontifex Maximus