Sexuality in Medieval Europe: Doing Unto Others

Sexuality in Medieval Europe explores the diverse attitudes towards sexuality in medieval Christian Western Europe, considering gender, social status, religious affiliation, and more. The fourth edition includes new material on trans scholarship, sex work, and Byzantine and Muslim culture.

Format: Hardback
Length: 260 pages
Publication date: 03 April 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Sexuality in Medieval Europe, now in its fourth edition, offers a captivating account of a society whose attitudes toward sexuality were both ancestral to and distinct from contemporary ones. The volume is organized not by specific types of sexual interactions or deviance but rather to reflect the differing gendered experiences when sex is perceived as an act performed by one person to another. Sexual activity, both within and outside of marriage, as well as sexual inactivity, carried distinct meanings based on factors such as gender, social status, religious affiliation, and more. This book aims to demonstrate that there was no singular medieval attitude towards sexuality. With a primary focus on Christian Western Europe throughout the entirety of the Middle Ages, it also includes comparative material on neighboring cultures at the time. In addition to undergoing rework for enhanced clarity and readability, the fourth edition introduces substantial new content on trans scholarship and methodological efforts to reclaim a trans past. It also encompasses changes in the treatment of sex work and its terminology, as well as new material on Byzantine and Muslim culture.

Sexuality in Medieval Europe serves as an indispensable resource for scholars interested in medieval history, medieval culture, and the history of sexuality in Europe. It provides a rich and nuanced understanding of the complex and multifaceted nature of sexual practices and attitudes during this period, challenging preconceived notions and shedding light on the diverse experiences of individuals and communities. By exploring the intersections of gender, social status, religion, and culture, this book offers valuable insights into the complex web of sexual relationships and behaviors that shaped medieval society. Whether one is a historian, cultural studies scholar, or simply interested in learning more about the past, Sexuality in Medieval Europe is an essential read that will deepen one's understanding of this fascinating and complex era.

Weight: 666g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367647285
Edition number: 4 ed