Module Two: Bedrock to Boudoir
Throughout history, the tangled web of human desire is a saga filled with more twists and turns than a daytime soap opera. We're delving into the juicy bits that only partially made it into those glossy history books your high school teacher relied on. No, we're venturing into the depths of pre-1500 Western civilization, where sex wasn't just a pastime; it was practically a vocation.
But before we plunge into the details, let's talk about the 800-pound gorilla in the room: religion. Ah, yes, the same institutions that brought you guilt, shame, and the occasional bonfire also had their say on who could mix and mingle romantically. The Christian Church, for example, had a strict policy on celibacy unless, of course, you were hitched. Nothing says "holy matrimony" like a guilt trip, right?
Yet, it wasn't all gloom and doom. Religion did offer some perks, like a convenient excuse for not engaging in extramarital escapades without risking eternal damnation. And let's remember those strategic marriage alliances, where swapping daughters for land and titles was the medieval version of matchmaking.
Then there were the social pecking orders, where your choice of bedfellow could make or break your social standing. Marriages weren't just about love but about consolidating power and wealth. Picture it like the original power couple, except they had peasants instead of social media followers.
Let's not neglect the cultural side of things. Art, literature, folklore—you name it—were all getting cozy with sex. Sure, they may have reinforced some gender stereotypes, but at least they were upfront about it. Medieval erotica wasn't exactly subtle, but then again, neither were the Middle Ages.
Of course, we can't discuss intimacy without acknowledging the brave souls who ventured into science and medicine. Early anatomists were like the OG sex ed teachers, except instead of diagrams of flowers and bees, they had cadavers. And then there were those charming superstitions that led to practices like bloodletting and leeches. Ah, the good old days.
But why bother exploring all this ancient love drama? Well, it helps us comprehend how we arrived at our current state of affairs. Plus, it's a fantastic way to question the status quo and challenge societal norms. And let's be honest, who doesn't enjoy a juicy slice of scandalous history?
So there you have it, folks. Romance in pre-1500 Western civilization was messy, intricate, and scandalous. At least the people knew how to have a good time amidst the chaos.
THE RUNDOWN
QUESTIONS
But before we plunge into the details, let's talk about the 800-pound gorilla in the room: religion. Ah, yes, the same institutions that brought you guilt, shame, and the occasional bonfire also had their say on who could mix and mingle romantically. The Christian Church, for example, had a strict policy on celibacy unless, of course, you were hitched. Nothing says "holy matrimony" like a guilt trip, right?
Yet, it wasn't all gloom and doom. Religion did offer some perks, like a convenient excuse for not engaging in extramarital escapades without risking eternal damnation. And let's remember those strategic marriage alliances, where swapping daughters for land and titles was the medieval version of matchmaking.
Then there were the social pecking orders, where your choice of bedfellow could make or break your social standing. Marriages weren't just about love but about consolidating power and wealth. Picture it like the original power couple, except they had peasants instead of social media followers.
Let's not neglect the cultural side of things. Art, literature, folklore—you name it—were all getting cozy with sex. Sure, they may have reinforced some gender stereotypes, but at least they were upfront about it. Medieval erotica wasn't exactly subtle, but then again, neither were the Middle Ages.
Of course, we can't discuss intimacy without acknowledging the brave souls who ventured into science and medicine. Early anatomists were like the OG sex ed teachers, except instead of diagrams of flowers and bees, they had cadavers. And then there were those charming superstitions that led to practices like bloodletting and leeches. Ah, the good old days.
But why bother exploring all this ancient love drama? Well, it helps us comprehend how we arrived at our current state of affairs. Plus, it's a fantastic way to question the status quo and challenge societal norms. And let's be honest, who doesn't enjoy a juicy slice of scandalous history?
So there you have it, folks. Romance in pre-1500 Western civilization was messy, intricate, and scandalous. At least the people knew how to have a good time amidst the chaos.
THE RUNDOWN
- Before 1500, sex was shaped by religion, like the Christian Church, which controlled marriage but limited personal freedom.
- Marriages were often about power and money, not love, and women had less say in their lives.
- Art and stories talked about sex, but they often showed what men wanted, not what everyone thought.
- Doctors knew some things about sex, but they also believed some wrong stuff, like about humors.
- Learning about old ideas about sex helps us understand why we think about it the way we do now.
- Looking at history can help us make better rules about sex today, so everyone is treated fairly.
QUESTIONS
- How did religion influence attitudes towards sex before 1500, and what were the positive and negative effects of this influence on society?
- Why is it important to study historical attitudes towards sex in order to understand contemporary perspectives on sexuality?
- How can insights from the study of pre-1500 sexuality inform modern discussions and policies surrounding issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and sexual education?
#2 History Is Constantly Changing
There is a common myth that lingers within the historical community. Every year, I ask my students whether they enjoy history or not. Generally, I get a good mix of enjoyment juxtaposed with physical anguish. If I press further and see WHY they hate studying history, the overwhelming answer is that history never changes. It's boring. I am here to put that baby to bed with rule number two of history: History is constantly changing. If we were to receive all our information from a textbook written 30 years ago, then yes, history doesn't change. But as we discover more artifacts buried in the mountains or invite more perspectives to the table (much like the 1619 Project), the account becomes more elastic.
History is always changing because new information and perspectives are constantly being discovered and added to our understanding of the past. Our knowledge of history can change as we learn more about the past through discovering new sources and reinterpreting existing ones. Several factors contribute to the changing nature of history. One is the availability of new sources. As historians uncover new primary sources, such as documents, artifacts, and other materials, they can add further information and perspectives to our understanding of the past. This can sometimes lead to a reinterpretation of previously accepted historical narratives. For example, recent research has revealed that the ancient Maya civilization was much more sophisticated and technologically advanced than previously thought.
Another factor contributing to the changing nature of history is the shifting nature of historical interpretation. As historians bring new perspectives and theoretical frameworks to the study of the past, they may reinterpret existing sources in new ways, leading to new understandings of historical events and trends. For example, recent evidence has revealed the extent of Soviet involvement in WWII and the role that Stalin played in shaping the outcome of the conflict. Finally, the changing nature of history can also be influenced by societal values and priorities shifts. As society changes, so do historians' questions about the past and how they interpret and understand it. For example, recent research has revealed the significant role that African Americans and women played in the American Revolution, challenging the traditional narrative of the revolution as a primarily white, male-led event.
History has twists and turns like a river as we uncover new information and view past events through different lenses. Today, the study of history is more important than ever. By understanding the past, we can glean important lessons and avoid repeating the same mistakes. In the ever-changing tapestry of time, the past is forever in flux—the lens of our present colors our understanding of what went down before we arrived. Take colonialism, for example. Back in the day, it was hailed as a glorious enterprise, a civilizing mission that brought enlightenment to the benighted heathens. But we now view it through a darker lens, as a force that trampled upon and exploited the people it claimed to uplift. It just shows what we think we know is always subject to change.
History can constantly evolve and change based on new information and available sources. Take the Dead Sea Scrolls, for example. In the mid-20th century, these ancient manuscripts were discovered, and suddenly, everything we thought we knew about Christianity and Judaism's origins was questioned. It turned out that these religions were way more diverse and complex than we ever could have imagined. It shows that the more we learn, the more we realize how little we know. It's all subjective. Biases and prejudices can creep in and warp the way we see things. Take historical figures, for instance. One person might see Winston Churchill as a hero, a champion who saved Britain from certain doom in the Second World War. But someone else, well, they might see him as a racist imperialist who imposed his will on India and caused untold suffering. It's all a matter of perspective. The truth exists, but we must sift through the propaganda and find it.
If you want to know where you came from and what kind of mess we're in now, you must study history. It isn't just about memorizing dates and names; it's about learning from our mistakes so we don't have to keep repeating them. Take the Holocaust, for instance. That's some heavy shit, but it taught us a thing or two about the dangers of being intolerant and extreme. Now, we have a better handle on human rights and equality, which is worth fighting for.
It is essential to recognize that history serves as a vital tool for comprehending the intricate workings of our world and how various societies and cultures have intersected throughout history. By examining the Silk Road trade routes, we can gain a deeper insight into the historical ties between Asia, Europe, and Africa and how these ties impacted the evolution of distinct societies. History is a shape-shifting beast, ever-morphing with each discovery, shift in perspective, and subjective interpretation. But fear not, for studying history is as crucial now as ever. Through the lens of the past, we can gain valuable insights that help us navigate the present and avoid repeating the same old mistakes. By peering into the annals of history, we can also gain a greater appreciation for our place in this world and a deeper understanding of the intricate workings of human society.
Overall, the changing nature of history is a testament to the ongoing process of historical inquiry and the human desire to understand the past better.
RUNDOWN
STATE OF THE WORLD
History is always changing because new information and perspectives are constantly being discovered and added to our understanding of the past. Our knowledge of history can change as we learn more about the past through discovering new sources and reinterpreting existing ones. Several factors contribute to the changing nature of history. One is the availability of new sources. As historians uncover new primary sources, such as documents, artifacts, and other materials, they can add further information and perspectives to our understanding of the past. This can sometimes lead to a reinterpretation of previously accepted historical narratives. For example, recent research has revealed that the ancient Maya civilization was much more sophisticated and technologically advanced than previously thought.
Another factor contributing to the changing nature of history is the shifting nature of historical interpretation. As historians bring new perspectives and theoretical frameworks to the study of the past, they may reinterpret existing sources in new ways, leading to new understandings of historical events and trends. For example, recent evidence has revealed the extent of Soviet involvement in WWII and the role that Stalin played in shaping the outcome of the conflict. Finally, the changing nature of history can also be influenced by societal values and priorities shifts. As society changes, so do historians' questions about the past and how they interpret and understand it. For example, recent research has revealed the significant role that African Americans and women played in the American Revolution, challenging the traditional narrative of the revolution as a primarily white, male-led event.
History has twists and turns like a river as we uncover new information and view past events through different lenses. Today, the study of history is more important than ever. By understanding the past, we can glean important lessons and avoid repeating the same mistakes. In the ever-changing tapestry of time, the past is forever in flux—the lens of our present colors our understanding of what went down before we arrived. Take colonialism, for example. Back in the day, it was hailed as a glorious enterprise, a civilizing mission that brought enlightenment to the benighted heathens. But we now view it through a darker lens, as a force that trampled upon and exploited the people it claimed to uplift. It just shows what we think we know is always subject to change.
History can constantly evolve and change based on new information and available sources. Take the Dead Sea Scrolls, for example. In the mid-20th century, these ancient manuscripts were discovered, and suddenly, everything we thought we knew about Christianity and Judaism's origins was questioned. It turned out that these religions were way more diverse and complex than we ever could have imagined. It shows that the more we learn, the more we realize how little we know. It's all subjective. Biases and prejudices can creep in and warp the way we see things. Take historical figures, for instance. One person might see Winston Churchill as a hero, a champion who saved Britain from certain doom in the Second World War. But someone else, well, they might see him as a racist imperialist who imposed his will on India and caused untold suffering. It's all a matter of perspective. The truth exists, but we must sift through the propaganda and find it.
If you want to know where you came from and what kind of mess we're in now, you must study history. It isn't just about memorizing dates and names; it's about learning from our mistakes so we don't have to keep repeating them. Take the Holocaust, for instance. That's some heavy shit, but it taught us a thing or two about the dangers of being intolerant and extreme. Now, we have a better handle on human rights and equality, which is worth fighting for.
It is essential to recognize that history serves as a vital tool for comprehending the intricate workings of our world and how various societies and cultures have intersected throughout history. By examining the Silk Road trade routes, we can gain a deeper insight into the historical ties between Asia, Europe, and Africa and how these ties impacted the evolution of distinct societies. History is a shape-shifting beast, ever-morphing with each discovery, shift in perspective, and subjective interpretation. But fear not, for studying history is as crucial now as ever. Through the lens of the past, we can gain valuable insights that help us navigate the present and avoid repeating the same old mistakes. By peering into the annals of history, we can also gain a greater appreciation for our place in this world and a deeper understanding of the intricate workings of human society.
Overall, the changing nature of history is a testament to the ongoing process of historical inquiry and the human desire to understand the past better.
RUNDOWN
- Many think history is boring and unchanging, but this is a myth.
- History is dynamic, continuously changing with new information, perspectives, and interpretations.
- New sources, shifting historical interpretations, and societal changes contribute to the evolving nature of history.
- Recent findings reveal the sophistication of the ancient Maya civilization, challenging previous notions.
- History is subjective, influenced by biases and perspectives, evident in varying views of figures like Winston Churchill.
- Studying history is essential for learning from mistakes, understanding human societies, and gaining insights to navigate the present.
STATE OF THE WORLD
World Map, 3,000 BCE
3000 BCE In Mesopotamia, Sumerians built ziggurats while pioneering the world's first writing system filled with ancient shopping lists and godly beard debates. Egypt's pyramids weren't just tombs but the original reality shows; their hieroglyphs were the original memes. Meanwhile, the Indus Valley had urban planning skills that rival today. Europe's Bronze Age was its tech boom, with bronze swords as must-haves and Stonehenge as an ancient crowdfunding fail that turned Instagram a hotspot. Mesoamerica's Olmecs were the hipsters of giant head carving, and Africa was a bustling trade marketplace of cultures. Intercontinental trade was their speedy delivery—the social hierarchy: kings to clean-up crews, slavery, the unpaid internship of old.
HIGHLIGHTS
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We've got some fine classroom lectures coming your way, all courtesy of the RPTM podcast. These lectures will take you on a wild ride through history, exploring everything from ancient civilizations and epic battles to scientific breakthroughs and artistic revolutions. The podcast will guide you through each lecture with its no-nonsense, straight-talking style, using various sources to give you the lowdown on each topic. You won't find any fancy-pants jargon or convoluted theories here, just plain and straightforward explanations anyone can understand. So sit back and prepare to soak up some knowledge.
LECTURES
LECTURES
- UNDER CONSTRUCTION!
The Reading section—a realm where our aspirations of enlightenment often clash with the harsh realities of procrastination and the desperate reliance on Google. We soldier on through dense texts, promised 'broadening perspectives' but often wrestling with existential dread and academic pressure. With a healthy dose of sarcasm and a strong cup of coffee, I'll be your guide on this wild journey from dusty tomes to the murky depths of postmodernism. In the midst of all the pretentious prose, there's a glimmer of insight: we're all in this together, united in our struggle to survive without losing our sanity.
READING
This class utilizes the following textbook:
Sherman, Dennis, and Joyce Salisbury. The West in the World. 5th ed. McGraw Hill, 2013.
In the whirlwind of academia, where tweed jackets and discussions about the best coffee spot reign, Joyce Salisbury and Dennis Sherman stand out as the rebels of historical scholarship. Armed with Salisbury's Ph.D. in medieval history from Rutgers University and Sherman's academic journey from UC Berkeley to the University of Michigan, they challenge the conventional norms with their scholarly prowess and irreverent wit. Salisbury fearlessly delves into ancient violence with works like "The Blood of Martyrs" and uncovers forgotten tales of resilience in "The Encyclopedia of Women in the Ancient World." Meanwhile, Sherman, akin to an academic Indiana Jones, roams the globe contemplating French history in Parisian cafes and making history accessible with titles like "A Short History of Western Civilization." Together, they disrupt the ivory tower with their unapologetic approach and thirst for asking the tough questions.
As a dynamic duo, Salisbury and Sherman defy the stereotype of the stuffy historian. Their partnership merges Salisbury's pen, mightier than Excalibur itself, with Sherman's knack for weaving accessible narratives. They're not just scholars but cultural provocateurs challenging the status quo. So, here's to raising a glass (or a quill) to these academic renegades, who breathe life into the dusty corridors of historical scholarship with their relentless curiosity and scholarly swagger.
RUNDOWN
READING
- Chapter 2. The Contest for Excellence: Greece, 2000-338 B.C.E.
This class utilizes the following textbook:
Sherman, Dennis, and Joyce Salisbury. The West in the World. 5th ed. McGraw Hill, 2013.
In the whirlwind of academia, where tweed jackets and discussions about the best coffee spot reign, Joyce Salisbury and Dennis Sherman stand out as the rebels of historical scholarship. Armed with Salisbury's Ph.D. in medieval history from Rutgers University and Sherman's academic journey from UC Berkeley to the University of Michigan, they challenge the conventional norms with their scholarly prowess and irreverent wit. Salisbury fearlessly delves into ancient violence with works like "The Blood of Martyrs" and uncovers forgotten tales of resilience in "The Encyclopedia of Women in the Ancient World." Meanwhile, Sherman, akin to an academic Indiana Jones, roams the globe contemplating French history in Parisian cafes and making history accessible with titles like "A Short History of Western Civilization." Together, they disrupt the ivory tower with their unapologetic approach and thirst for asking the tough questions.
As a dynamic duo, Salisbury and Sherman defy the stereotype of the stuffy historian. Their partnership merges Salisbury's pen, mightier than Excalibur itself, with Sherman's knack for weaving accessible narratives. They're not just scholars but cultural provocateurs challenging the status quo. So, here's to raising a glass (or a quill) to these academic renegades, who breathe life into the dusty corridors of historical scholarship with their relentless curiosity and scholarly swagger.
RUNDOWN
- Small city-states in the Greek mountains changed Western civilization.
- These cities had participatory governments where men were involved in all aspects.
- Men in ancient Greece created art, theater, and architecture that influenced Western aesthetics.
- They also developed a rational approach to inquiry, impacting modern understanding in various fields.
- However, Greece's focus on individual accomplishment led to its political downfall.
- Leadership in the eastern Mediterranean shifted to those who prioritized unity over heroism.
- Despite this change, Greek achievements spread to India through a new empire.
Howard Zinn was a historian, writer, and political activist known for his critical analysis of American history. He is particularly well-known for his counter-narrative to traditional American history accounts and highlights marginalized groups' experiences and perspectives. Zinn's work is often associated with social history and is known for his Marxist and socialist views. Larry Schweikart is also a historian, but his work and perspective are often considered more conservative. Schweikart's work is often associated with military history, and he is known for his support of free-market economics and limited government. Overall, Zinn and Schweikart have different perspectives on various historical issues and events and may interpret historical events and phenomena differently. Occasionally, we will also look at Thaddeus Russell, a historian, author, and academic. Russell has written extensively on the history of social and cultural change, and his work focuses on how marginalized and oppressed groups have challenged and transformed mainstream culture. Russell is known for his unconventional and controversial ideas, and his work has been praised for its originality and provocative nature.
My classes utilize both Howard Zinn's A People's History of the United States and Larry Schweikart's Patriot's History of the United States, mostly in excerpts posted to the modules.
My classes utilize both Howard Zinn's A People's History of the United States and Larry Schweikart's Patriot's History of the United States, mostly in excerpts posted to the modules.
Zinn, A People's History of the United States
"... (Native American) Marriage laws are non-existent men and women alike choose their mates and leave them as they please, without offense, jealousy or anger. They multiply in great abundance; pregnant women work to the last minute and give birth almost painlessly; up the next day, they bathe in the river and are as clean and healthy as before giving birth. If they tire of their men, they give themselves abortions with herbs that force stillbirths, covering their shameful parts with leaves or cotton cloth; although on the whole, Indian men and women look upon total nakedness with as much casualness as we look upon a man's head or at his hands..."
"...The master tried to control completely the sexual lives of the servants. It was in his economic interest to keep women servants from marrying or from having sexual relations, because childbearing would interfere with work. Benjamin Franklin, writing as "Poor Richard" in 1736, gave advice to his readers: "Let thy maidservant be faithful, strong and homely..."
"... (Native American) Marriage laws are non-existent men and women alike choose their mates and leave them as they please, without offense, jealousy or anger. They multiply in great abundance; pregnant women work to the last minute and give birth almost painlessly; up the next day, they bathe in the river and are as clean and healthy as before giving birth. If they tire of their men, they give themselves abortions with herbs that force stillbirths, covering their shameful parts with leaves or cotton cloth; although on the whole, Indian men and women look upon total nakedness with as much casualness as we look upon a man's head or at his hands..."
"...The master tried to control completely the sexual lives of the servants. It was in his economic interest to keep women servants from marrying or from having sexual relations, because childbearing would interfere with work. Benjamin Franklin, writing as "Poor Richard" in 1736, gave advice to his readers: "Let thy maidservant be faithful, strong and homely..."
Larry Schweikart, A Patriot's History of the United States
...Black codes (In the United States) forbade slave literacy, gun or dog ownership, travel (excepting special travel permits), gatherings numbering more than six slaves, and sex between black males and white women (miscegenation). However, as the development of a large mulatto population attests, white men were obviously free to have sex with—or, more often, rape—black women.
"...Even the most “benign” slavery, however, was always immoral and oppressive. Every female slave knew that ultimately if her master chose to make sexual advances, she had no authority to refuse. The system legitimized rape, even though benign masters never touched their female slaves..."
"...Alfred Kinsey’s Sexual Behavior in the Human Female, which appeared in 1953, even if tainted by flawed data still indicated that women were having sex before marriage in large numbers, perhaps—if Kinsey’s statistics were to be believed— up to half of the six thousand women he had interviewed. Certainly men thought about sex all the time, or at least that was the premise behind the launch of Hugh Hefner’s Playboy magazine in 1953, wherein photos of nude women were legitimized for viewing by middle-class men by packaging them with interviews, fiction, and “serious reporting...”
"...The free love movement, supported by the hippies, also reinforced the attack on constraints. Two strains of free love arguments appeared. One held that any breaking of sexual taboos and any attack on censorship represented an advance against the male-dominated power structure. Thus, some supported the women’s movement not because it allowed women to seek self-fulfillment outside the home, but because it undercut capitalism and traditionalism. A second, more radical, wave of sexual politics involved the quest for polymorphous perversity—a call to try everything, do everything, and ignore all restraints against homosexuality, pedophilia, and bestiality—and the
destruction of all distinctions between men and women. Any type of affection that affirmed life, these advocates argued, was desirable. Marriage and heterosexuality inhibited such life affirmation and therefore were wrong...."
...Black codes (In the United States) forbade slave literacy, gun or dog ownership, travel (excepting special travel permits), gatherings numbering more than six slaves, and sex between black males and white women (miscegenation). However, as the development of a large mulatto population attests, white men were obviously free to have sex with—or, more often, rape—black women.
"...Even the most “benign” slavery, however, was always immoral and oppressive. Every female slave knew that ultimately if her master chose to make sexual advances, she had no authority to refuse. The system legitimized rape, even though benign masters never touched their female slaves..."
"...Alfred Kinsey’s Sexual Behavior in the Human Female, which appeared in 1953, even if tainted by flawed data still indicated that women were having sex before marriage in large numbers, perhaps—if Kinsey’s statistics were to be believed— up to half of the six thousand women he had interviewed. Certainly men thought about sex all the time, or at least that was the premise behind the launch of Hugh Hefner’s Playboy magazine in 1953, wherein photos of nude women were legitimized for viewing by middle-class men by packaging them with interviews, fiction, and “serious reporting...”
"...The free love movement, supported by the hippies, also reinforced the attack on constraints. Two strains of free love arguments appeared. One held that any breaking of sexual taboos and any attack on censorship represented an advance against the male-dominated power structure. Thus, some supported the women’s movement not because it allowed women to seek self-fulfillment outside the home, but because it undercut capitalism and traditionalism. A second, more radical, wave of sexual politics involved the quest for polymorphous perversity—a call to try everything, do everything, and ignore all restraints against homosexuality, pedophilia, and bestiality—and the
destruction of all distinctions between men and women. Any type of affection that affirmed life, these advocates argued, was desirable. Marriage and heterosexuality inhibited such life affirmation and therefore were wrong...."
Thaddeus Russell, A Renegade History of the United States
"... In the nineteenth century, a woman who owned property, made high wages, had sex outside of marriage, performed or received oral sex, used birth control, consorted with men of other races, danced, drank, or walked alone in public, wore makeup, perfume or stylish clothes–and was not ashamed–was probably a whore. In fact, prostitutes won virtually all the freedoms that were denied to women but are now taken for granted...”
"... In the nineteenth century, a woman who owned property, made high wages, had sex outside of marriage, performed or received oral sex, used birth control, consorted with men of other races, danced, drank, or walked alone in public, wore makeup, perfume or stylish clothes–and was not ashamed–was probably a whore. In fact, prostitutes won virtually all the freedoms that were denied to women but are now taken for granted...”
The tangled web of human attraction, woven with threads of desire, power, and enough drama to fill a soap opera marathon. It's like navigating a funhouse maze - thrilling, scary, and occasionally inducing motion sickness. So, strap in tight because we're embarking on a journey through the murky waters of history, where the lifeguard is off duty, and the currents are unpredictable.
Imagine a time before Wi-Fi, where "Netflix and chill" involved gathering around a communal fire and swapping stories like ancient YouTubers. Native American cultures were living it up, giving the finger to traditional marriage like it was a lousy sitcom rerun. Relationships were as fluid as melted popsicles, with folks mingling freely without society's nosy judgment. And childbirth? A reason to party, not serve a nine-month sentence with an epidural chaser. Women worked the fields until they popped out a baby, all while sipping herbal tea that would make Gwyneth Paltrow blush.
But wait, hold onto your hats because we're veering into the dark alley of American history - slavery. Yep, where consent took a nosedive faster than a Kardashian's social media likes post-Photoshop scandal. Enslaved folks were treated like discount items, with masters playing puppeteer with their lives faster than you could say "oppression overload." Marriage and family? Reserved for the privileged few, while the rest endured a hellish ride of exploitation and trauma. Sally Hemings, anyone? It was just another day of being owned by a founding father.
Fast forward to the 20th century, when Alfred Kinsey stirred up more drama than a Kardashian baby name reveal. Suddenly, bedrooms became statistical battlegrounds, with Kinsey's studies revealing more about human sexuality than a decade of late-night internet browsing. And let's not forget Hugh Hefner, the OG playboy who turned nudity into a billion-dollar empire faster than you could say "cheesecake centerfold." Playboy wasn't just a magazine but a cultural mic drop wrapped in silk and cigar smoke.
Then came the swinging sixties, where free love wasn't just a concept but a pickup line at a Woodstock concert. Gender roles? A thing of the past. Monogamy? Please, that's so last century. The free love movement was about flipping the bird to authority, one naked protest at a time. But like any good party, it had its dark corners - shady practices and ethical dilemmas that made you question if love was all you needed.
So, where does that leave us? In a whirlpool of contradictions, my friends, where autonomy battles exploitation, and societal norms are as shaky as a Jenga tower during an earthquake. At least history reminds us that human sexuality is a messy, magnificent ride. Sometimes, all we can do is embrace the chaos and hope we come out in one piece.
THE RUNDOWN
QUESTIONS
Imagine a time before Wi-Fi, where "Netflix and chill" involved gathering around a communal fire and swapping stories like ancient YouTubers. Native American cultures were living it up, giving the finger to traditional marriage like it was a lousy sitcom rerun. Relationships were as fluid as melted popsicles, with folks mingling freely without society's nosy judgment. And childbirth? A reason to party, not serve a nine-month sentence with an epidural chaser. Women worked the fields until they popped out a baby, all while sipping herbal tea that would make Gwyneth Paltrow blush.
But wait, hold onto your hats because we're veering into the dark alley of American history - slavery. Yep, where consent took a nosedive faster than a Kardashian's social media likes post-Photoshop scandal. Enslaved folks were treated like discount items, with masters playing puppeteer with their lives faster than you could say "oppression overload." Marriage and family? Reserved for the privileged few, while the rest endured a hellish ride of exploitation and trauma. Sally Hemings, anyone? It was just another day of being owned by a founding father.
Fast forward to the 20th century, when Alfred Kinsey stirred up more drama than a Kardashian baby name reveal. Suddenly, bedrooms became statistical battlegrounds, with Kinsey's studies revealing more about human sexuality than a decade of late-night internet browsing. And let's not forget Hugh Hefner, the OG playboy who turned nudity into a billion-dollar empire faster than you could say "cheesecake centerfold." Playboy wasn't just a magazine but a cultural mic drop wrapped in silk and cigar smoke.
Then came the swinging sixties, where free love wasn't just a concept but a pickup line at a Woodstock concert. Gender roles? A thing of the past. Monogamy? Please, that's so last century. The free love movement was about flipping the bird to authority, one naked protest at a time. But like any good party, it had its dark corners - shady practices and ethical dilemmas that made you question if love was all you needed.
So, where does that leave us? In a whirlpool of contradictions, my friends, where autonomy battles exploitation, and societal norms are as shaky as a Jenga tower during an earthquake. At least history reminds us that human sexuality is a messy, magnificent ride. Sometimes, all we can do is embrace the chaos and hope we come out in one piece.
THE RUNDOWN
- Native American societies before 1500 CE let people pick partners freely and didn't judge them for leaving, and women were respected for their roles in childbirth and could use herbs for birth control.
- Slavery in the United States forced enslaved women to obey masters who controlled their relationships to keep them productive, and white men often raped black women with no consequences.
- In the 1900s, researchers like Alfred Kinsey showed that many women had sex before marriage, challenging what people thought was normal, while Playboy magazine made nudity and sex more common in everyday life.
- The free love movement in the 1960s wanted to break old rules about sex and gender, though it had different ideas, and sometimes controversial ones, like accepting pedophilia and bestiality.
- Women who went against traditional rules, like having sex outside marriage, were often looked down upon, but some found freedom and independence in prostitution.
- Studying these historical views on sex helps us understand how Western society has evolved and why it's important to challenge old ideas about sexuality today.
QUESTIONS
- The free love movement of the 1960s advocated for sexual liberation and the rejection of traditional gender roles. Do you believe this movement ultimately succeeded in challenging societal norms, or did it reinforce existing inequalities and stereotypes?
- How have societal views on women's sexuality evolved since pre-1500 CE, and in what ways do you think they continue to shape gender dynamics and power structures in modern society?
- Why is it important for us to critically examine historical perspectives on sexuality, even those that may be uncomfortable or controversial? How can understanding these historical narratives contribute to creating a more inclusive and equitable society today?
A medieval sex scene on a fresco from Piedmont
Prepare to be transported into the captivating realm of historical films and videos. Brace yourselves for a mind-bending odyssey through time as we embark on a cinematic expedition. Within these flickering frames, the past morphs into a vivid tapestry of triumphs, tragedies, and transformative moments that have shaped the very fabric of our existence. We shall immerse ourselves in a whirlwind of visual narratives, dissecting the nuances of artistic interpretations, examining the storytelling techniques, and voraciously devouring historical accuracy with the ferocity of a time-traveling historian. So strap in, hold tight, and prepare to have your perception of history forever shattered by the mesmerizing lens of the camera.
THE RUNDOWN
The medieval era often gets painted with broad strokes of prudishness. Yet, places like York tell a different story. This bustling medieval hub wasn't just known for the wool trade and had a thriving 'specialized services' scene that would've put modern Amsterdam to shame. Despite the Church's attempts to regulate this, the people of York were inventively entrepreneurial about pleasure. Picture them strutting around in outfits inspired by the day's 'working women' and making public displays of affection the norm rather than the exception. And while Eleanor Reichner defied societal norms, royal bedrooms were hotbeds of drama, rivaling today's reality TV with power plays and scandalous love triangles.
But let's not romanticize too much; it wasn't all fun and games. Bawdy tales and uproarious laughter hinted at a society grappling with its desires and taboos. This humor served as a pressure release valve in a world as unpredictable as it was unforgiving. The Middle Ages were neither purely prudish nor hedonistic but a fascinating blend of the profound and the absurd, much like our human journey through history.
The medieval era often gets painted with broad strokes of prudishness. Yet, places like York tell a different story. This bustling medieval hub wasn't just known for the wool trade and had a thriving 'specialized services' scene that would've put modern Amsterdam to shame. Despite the Church's attempts to regulate this, the people of York were inventively entrepreneurial about pleasure. Picture them strutting around in outfits inspired by the day's 'working women' and making public displays of affection the norm rather than the exception. And while Eleanor Reichner defied societal norms, royal bedrooms were hotbeds of drama, rivaling today's reality TV with power plays and scandalous love triangles.
But let's not romanticize too much; it wasn't all fun and games. Bawdy tales and uproarious laughter hinted at a society grappling with its desires and taboos. This humor served as a pressure release valve in a world as unpredictable as it was unforgiving. The Middle Ages were neither purely prudish nor hedonistic but a fascinating blend of the profound and the absurd, much like our human journey through history.
Welcome to the mind-bending Key Terms extravaganza of our history class learning module. Brace yourselves; we will unravel the cryptic codes, secret handshakes, and linguistic labyrinths that make up the twisted tapestry of historical knowledge. These key terms are the Rosetta Stones of our academic journey, the skeleton keys to unlocking the enigmatic doors of comprehension. They're like historical Swiss Army knives, equipped with blades of definition and corkscrews of contextual examples, ready to pierce through the fog of confusion and liberate your intellectual curiosity. By harnessing the power of these mighty key terms, you'll possess the superhuman ability to traverse the treacherous terrains of primary sources, surf the tumultuous waves of academic texts, and engage in epic battles of historical debate. The past awaits, and the key terms are keys to unlocking its dazzling secrets.
KEY TERMS
KEY TERMS
- 3100 BCE - Egyptian Fertility Cults
- 3000 BCE - Gender and Sexuality in Ancient Mesopotamia
- 3000 BCE - Temple Prostitution in Mesopotamia
- 2600 BCE - Sumerian Erotic Poetry
- 1754 BCE - The Code of Hammurabi
- 1400 BCE - Sacred Prostitution in Ancient Canaan
- 1150 BCE - The Turin Erotic Papyrus
- 900 BCE - Etruscan Sexual Customs
- 800 BCE - Ancient Greek Symposium
- 800 BCE - Greek Mythology and Erotica
- 800 BCE - Roman Sexual Practices
- 630 BCE - Sappho
- 300 BCE - The Erotica Pathemata
- 30 CE - Cleopatra VII
- 300 CE - The Oxyrhynchus Papyri
- 700 CE - Islamic Views on Sexuality
- 1079 CE - Abelard and Heloise
- 1225 CE - Thomas Aquinas and Sex
- 1343 CE - Chaucer and Sex
DISCLAIMER: Welcome scholars to the wild and wacky world of history class. This isn't your granddaddy's boring ol' lecture, baby. We will take a trip through time, which will be one wild ride. I know some of you are in a brick-and-mortar setting, while others are in the vast digital wasteland. But fear not; we're all in this together. Online students might miss out on some in-person interaction, but you can still join in on the fun. This little shindig aims to get you all engaged with the course material and understand how past societies have shaped the world we know today. We'll talk about revolutions, wars, and other crazy stuff. So get ready, kids, because it's going to be one heck of a trip. And for all, you online students out there, don't be shy. Please share your thoughts and ideas with the rest of us. The Professor will do his best to give everyone an equal opportunity to learn, so don't hold back. So, let's do this thing!
Activity #1: UNDER CONSTRUCTION
Objective: Answer the trivia questions related to western civilization's history of sex before 1500 CE by selecting the correct multiple-choice option for each question and submit your answers to see your final score.
Activity #1: UNDER CONSTRUCTION
Objective: Answer the trivia questions related to western civilization's history of sex before 1500 CE by selecting the correct multiple-choice option for each question and submit your answers to see your final score.
Western Civilization History of Sex Trivia Quiz
Question 1 of 5
Activity #2: UNDER CONSTRUCTION
Objective: Guess the word related to Western civilization's history of sex before 1500 CE by clicking on available letters, and aim to solve the puzzle before running out of guesses!
Objective: Guess the word related to Western civilization's history of sex before 1500 CE by clicking on available letters, and aim to solve the puzzle before running out of guesses!
Hangman Game
Guess the term related to Western civilization's history of sex before 1500 CE.
Ladies and gentlemen, gather 'round for the pièce de résistance of this classroom module - the summary section. As we embark on this tantalizing journey, we'll savor the exquisite flavors of knowledge, highlighting the fundamental ingredients and spices that have seasoned our minds throughout these captivating lessons. Prepare to indulge in a savory recap that will leave your intellectual taste buds tingling, serving as a passport to further enlightenment.
The labyrinthine maze of pre-1500 CE romantic escapades, where religion, culture, and power play a scandalous game of Twister, leaves us with a legacy that's as confounding as it is enlightening. Buckle up, folks, because we're about to embark on a journey into a realm where sexual freedom is as elusive as finding a unicorn at a bingo night.
Let's begin with our old buddy, Christianity, shall we? The Church was like that nosy neighbor who couldn't resist meddling in your love life, dictating who you could hitch your wagon to, when, and probably even how. Marriages were less about butterflies in the stomach and more about political chess moves, akin to a medieval version of Match.com but with fewer swipes and more blessings from above.
And oh, the art and literature of yore! It was a boys' club, with women relegated to the role of decorative ornaments or baby-making machines. Talk about a sausage fest of epic proportions.
Medical know-how? It's about as trustworthy as a fortune cookie at a carnival. Menstruation? Oh, just women's bodies getting a bad rap as sinful and impure, according to the so-called "experts" of the era. At least some ancient Greek thinkers were dropping truth bombs about love and lust, so it wasn't a complete dumpster fire.
But wait, there's more! Over yonder, Native American societies were like, "Hey, let's treat women like, you know, people." Revolutionary concept, right? Choosing partners based on personal preference? Women have some say in their own lives? It was a utopia until those European newcomers arrived, lugging along their baggage of rigid gender norms and sexual hang-ups.
And let's not overlook the grim shadow of slavery, the ultimate party pooper in human history. Enslaved women were essentially treated as disposable playthings because basic decency took a holiday during that era.
So, why should we care about this ancient sexual saga? Well, for starters, it's a crash course in how religion, culture, and power dynamics have been meddling in our love lives since time immemorial. By peeling back the layers of history, we can begin to unravel the complexities of modern sexual mores and perhaps inch closer to a world where everyone can enjoy a romp without some archaic rulebook breathing down their necks.
Or, in other words:
Let's begin with our old buddy, Christianity, shall we? The Church was like that nosy neighbor who couldn't resist meddling in your love life, dictating who you could hitch your wagon to, when, and probably even how. Marriages were less about butterflies in the stomach and more about political chess moves, akin to a medieval version of Match.com but with fewer swipes and more blessings from above.
And oh, the art and literature of yore! It was a boys' club, with women relegated to the role of decorative ornaments or baby-making machines. Talk about a sausage fest of epic proportions.
Medical know-how? It's about as trustworthy as a fortune cookie at a carnival. Menstruation? Oh, just women's bodies getting a bad rap as sinful and impure, according to the so-called "experts" of the era. At least some ancient Greek thinkers were dropping truth bombs about love and lust, so it wasn't a complete dumpster fire.
But wait, there's more! Over yonder, Native American societies were like, "Hey, let's treat women like, you know, people." Revolutionary concept, right? Choosing partners based on personal preference? Women have some say in their own lives? It was a utopia until those European newcomers arrived, lugging along their baggage of rigid gender norms and sexual hang-ups.
And let's not overlook the grim shadow of slavery, the ultimate party pooper in human history. Enslaved women were essentially treated as disposable playthings because basic decency took a holiday during that era.
So, why should we care about this ancient sexual saga? Well, for starters, it's a crash course in how religion, culture, and power dynamics have been meddling in our love lives since time immemorial. By peeling back the layers of history, we can begin to unravel the complexities of modern sexual mores and perhaps inch closer to a world where everyone can enjoy a romp without some archaic rulebook breathing down their necks.
Or, in other words:
- Before 1500 CE, religion, particularly Christianity, strongly influenced sex, controlling marriage and limiting personal freedom.
- Marriages were often arranged for power and wealth, leaving women with little choice, yet ensuring family stability.
- Art and literature depicted sex from a male viewpoint, reinforcing patriarchal attitudes and restricting women's agency.
- Medical knowledge about sex was limited, leading to misconceptions and taboos, such as viewing menstruation as unclean.
- Despite Christian dominance, sexual norms varied across cultures, with Native American societies exhibiting more egalitarian attitudes towards sex.
- Enslaved women faced sexual exploitation without consequences in societies like ancient Greece and Rome, perpetuating power imbalances.
ASSIGNMENTS
Remember all assignments, tests and quizzes must be submitted official via BLACKBOARD
Forum Discussion #03
- Forum Discussion #3
Remember all assignments, tests and quizzes must be submitted official via BLACKBOARD
Forum Discussion #03
The Big Think is a multimedia platform that offers expert-driven content on a wide range of topics to encourage critical thinking and exploration of ideas. Watch the following video:
Please answer the following question:
Considering the stories about the Roman Empire's wild sexual escapades, do you think these tales are mostly exaggerated or based on reality? How do you think gender roles and expectations in ancient Rome compare to today's society? Use examples to support your opinion.
Need help? Remember the Discussion Board Rubric.
THE RUNDOWN
The Roman Empire, where wild parties and peculiar tastes were the norm. Are we so different today? Not really. Instead of emperors with eccentric tastes, we have influencers taking on 24-hour challenges or devouring spicy wings for clicks. And let's not forget those enduring double standards—then women were saints; men had leeway; now we still nitpick women’s choices while men breeze through. Pompeii? Once an intimate getaway, it is now a tourist trap filled with spicy wall art and cozy corners. Human quirks remain constant; we keep updating the script. So, embrace the absurd, laugh at the contradictions, and aim for a world where everyone can be themselves without judgment. Because history's lesson? The more things change, the more entertainingly they stay the same.
Considering the stories about the Roman Empire's wild sexual escapades, do you think these tales are mostly exaggerated or based on reality? How do you think gender roles and expectations in ancient Rome compare to today's society? Use examples to support your opinion.
Need help? Remember the Discussion Board Rubric.
THE RUNDOWN
The Roman Empire, where wild parties and peculiar tastes were the norm. Are we so different today? Not really. Instead of emperors with eccentric tastes, we have influencers taking on 24-hour challenges or devouring spicy wings for clicks. And let's not forget those enduring double standards—then women were saints; men had leeway; now we still nitpick women’s choices while men breeze through. Pompeii? Once an intimate getaway, it is now a tourist trap filled with spicy wall art and cozy corners. Human quirks remain constant; we keep updating the script. So, embrace the absurd, laugh at the contradictions, and aim for a world where everyone can be themselves without judgment. Because history's lesson? The more things change, the more entertainingly they stay the same.
Hey, welcome to the work cited section! Here's where you'll find all the heavy hitters that inspired the content you've just consumed. Some might think citations are as dull as unbuttered toast, but nothing gets my intellectual juices flowing like a good reference list. Don't get me wrong, just because we've cited a source; doesn't mean we're always going to see eye-to-eye. But that's the beauty of it - it's up to you to chew on the material and come to conclusions. Listen, we've gone to great lengths to ensure these citations are accurate, but let's face it, we're all human. So, give us a holler if you notice any mistakes or suggest more sources. We're always looking to up our game. Ultimately, it's all about pursuing knowledge and truth.
Work Cited:
Work Cited:
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