cathedra

Arranged in the room are the cathedras, each oriented toward the center table just as in other triclinia. The back is raised higher than on a kline, and is typically only used by women. You don't quite understand how they can eat in that position, but then you don't have to worry about it since you're male. "Good," you think, "I wouldn't want to sit up like that." Hesitantly, you decide to try out the cathedra. As you sit and lean back, you confirm that this is uncomfortable and quickly rise. After another handful of grapes from the bowl you move out of the room.