A Curious History of Sex
Kate Lister
22 min
7 Key Points
4.5 RateWhat's inside?
Explore the intriguing and often unspoken history of human sexuality, filled with fascinating facts and anecdotes that will challenge your perceptions of sex throughout the ages.
You'll learn
1. How have views on sex changed over time?2. Where did our sexual norms and no-nos come from?3. How has sex shaped our culture and society?4. What's the story behind sex ed and birth control?5. How does sex play into power and politics?6. How have old-timey sexual practices shaped today's attitudes?Key points
01The Genesis of Sexuality
The genesis of human sexuality is a complex tapestry woven from the threads of history, culture, religion, and societal norms. The earliest recorded civilization, the Sumerians of Mesopotamia, laid the foundation for our understanding of sex. They revered Inanna, the goddess of love and sex, who was often depicted in erotic art and literature, signifying the importance of sex in their society. Moving forward to Ancient Egypt, sex was seen as a natural and integral part of life. The Egyptians had a sophisticated understanding of fertility and reproduction, as evidenced by the god Min, who was often depicted with an erect phallus. This suggests that they recognized and celebrated the role of sex in procreation. In Ancient Greece, the concept of pederasty, a socially acknowledged romantic relationship between an adult male and a younger male, was prevalent. This practice was seen as a rite of passage and a form of mentorship, indicating a nuanced understanding of sexuality and its role in societal structures. The Romans, known for their liberal views, had a plethora of gods and goddesses associated with love, sex, and fertility, such as Venus, the goddess of love and beauty. This pantheon of deities reflects the Romans' open-minded approach to sexuality, which was a stark contrast to other civilizations of the time. Religion and mythology have also played a significant role in shaping our understanding of sex. For instance, in Hinduism, the Kama Sutra, an ancient Indian text, is not just about sexual positions but also about the philosophy and theory of love. This suggests a holistic approach to sex, encompassing not just the physical act but also the emotional and spiritual aspects. However, the Middle Ages saw a shift in societal norms due to the Christian Church's views on sex and celibacy. The Church's teachings led to the demonization of certain sexual practices and the promotion of chastity, reflecting the power of religious institutions in shaping societal attitudes towards sex. The Victorian era presented a dichotomy of public prudishness and private debauchery, highlighting the tension between societal norms and individual desires. The impact of the industrial revolution on sex, such as the invention of the first vibrators to treat 'hysteria' in women, underscores the intersection of technology and sexuality. The 20th century marked a significant turning point with the sexual revolution. Societal norms and attitudes towards sex underwent significant changes, with the advent of birth control, the decriminalization of homosexuality in many countries, and the rise of feminism, which challenged traditional gender roles and sexual norms. In conclusion, the genesis of sexuality is a fascinating journey through time, reflecting the evolution of societal norms, cultural practices, and religious beliefs. It is a testament to the enduring power of sex as a fundamental aspect of human existence, shaping and being shaped by the societies in which it is practiced.
02The Middle Ages: A Time of Contradictions
The Middle Ages, a period often associated with religious piety and strict moral codes, was paradoxically a time of profound contradictions, particularly in the realm of sexual norms and practices. The Church, a dominant force in shaping societal norms, propagated a view of sex as a necessary evil, only to be engaged in for procreation. However, the reality of private practices often starkly contrasted with these public teachings, revealing a complex and nuanced sexual landscape. The Church's teachings, heavily influenced by St. Augustine, propagated a view of sex as a necessary evil, only to be engaged in for procreation. This led to the establishment of strict sexual norms, including the prohibition of sex on Sundays, during Lent, and after childbirth. The Church also enforced the idea of celibacy for the clergy, a rule that was often met with resistance and led to numerous scandals. Despite the Church's influence, there was a dichotomy between public morality and private practices. Many people, including the clergy, often engaged in sexual activities that contradicted the Church's teachings. For instance, there were numerous accounts of priests maintaining mistresses and fathering children, despite the vow of celibacy. Similarly, despite the Church's teachings against homosexuality, there were instances of same-sex relationships, as evidenced by the writings of monks Aelred of Rievaulx and John Boswell. The Middle Ages also saw the emergence of courtly love, a concept that romanticized extramarital affairs among the nobility. This was a stark contrast to the Church's teachings on marital fidelity. The concept of courtly love was popularized through literature, such as the Arthurian legends, where knights would pledge their love and loyalty to a lady, often someone else's wife. This romantic ideal often led to complex relationships and social dynamics within the court. Furthermore, the Middle Ages witnessed the rise of prostitution, which was often tolerated and regulated by local authorities. In some cities, brothels were even owned by the municipal authorities. This was another contradiction to the Church's teachings, but it was justified as a necessary evil to prevent worse sins like sodomy and adultery. In conclusion, the Middle Ages was a time of contradictions when it came to attitudes towards sex. Despite the Church's influence, people's private practices often contradicted public morality. This period also saw the emergence of courtly love and the rise of regulated prostitution, further complicating the sexual norms of the time. This historical period serves as a reminder that societal norms and private practices can often diverge, revealing a complex and nuanced landscape of human behavior.
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03The Renaissance: A Sexual Awakening
04The Victorian Era: Repression and Rebellion
05The 20th Century: The Sexual Revolution
06The 21st Century: Sexuality in the Digital Age
07Conclusion
About Kate Lister
Kate Lister is a research associate in the School of Arts and Communication at Leeds Trinity University. She is also the curator of the online research project "Whores of Yore," which explores the history of human sexuality. Lister is known for her engaging and informative writing style.