At the latest since J.J.Bachofen, the great nineteenth century matriarchy-scholar, classical studies have continuously shown an interest in the social position and role of the Etruscan woman. To a great extent, this research was based on the rare second-hand comments by Greek and Roman authors. The original Etruscan source material – archaeological finds and their context, iconographical and epigraphical documents – was mostly employed in a very selective manner. The present work focuses especially on the material that originated in Etruscan reality. Nevertheless it also includes a comprehensive evaluation of the ancient authors. Within the framework of a systematic analysis, new answers can be given which alter the image of Etruscan society and illustrate how deeply embedded it was in the Italic world.