In ancient Rome a noblewoman named Verginia married a plebeian man who had reached the rank of consul. Because of her unconventional union the patrician women kept her from worshipping at the temple of Pudicitia, goddess of modesty and fidelity, which had been reserved for the elite. Determined to honor her beliefs and open access for all, Verginia transformed part of her home into a sacred altar. This temple, known as the Temple of Pudicitia Plebeia, challenged the rigid social order. | The His