Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society What Was Sex Like In Medieval Times?
Feb 8, 2024
Explore the raunchiness of sex in medieval times, including the impact of celibacy on monks and the reaction of their wives. Learn about the perception of sex and beauty, hygiene and sex work, and the significance of pregnancy, sexual diseases, and naughty nuns in medieval society.
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Tokens Played A Big Role In Courtship
- Medieval courtship used gift-giving and tokens as important signals of affection and intent.
- Literature like Chaucer's Miller's Tale shows small presents could function as love tokens.
Limited Options For Single Women
- Remaining single was limited; options included work, spinsterhood, wealthy widowhood, or joining a convent.
- Some women paid to secure lifelong celibacy or resisted remarriage after widowhood.
Same‑Sex Acts Were Policed Unevenly
- Same-sex acts were condemned by the church but persisted; records record many male cases, fewer female ones.
- Some cities institutionalized policing of male same-sex activity, producing thousands of documented cases.