First of all, I can't help but say that this thread should have been in O/T (Tavern Frontroom).

Second, I find it interesting that most people here answered the question assuming they got to pick which segment of society they would belong. For me the question is much more difficult if you cannot. Living in Rome as a wealthy family or even a general is one thing, but as a member of the lower classes or soldier of the line would be very different indeed.

If you can choose your position, then why not say "Pharoah of Egypt" (better than Emporer of Rome - as many of them had decidedly short rules)

For that reason, I would have to choose a Greek city-state, or else a "barbarian" culture - preferably one far from Roman influence. Sparta is only good if you can be certain you would be a citizen and not a Helot. Rome was far too brutal, and I dare say we have fairly idealized views of it's "civilization".

Oh, and the other obvious answer that nobody states is Japan (another one not so bad for women - especially women of the samurai class), but I assume as this is within the RTW forum, that we are taking a western view.