- English
- ePUB (mobile friendly)
- Available on iOS & Android
Sexuality in Medieval Poland in a European Context
About this book
This book explores the development of sexual ethics in medieval Poland, focusing on how the process of Christianization integrated Poland into the Western European cultural sphere, and how the adoption of Christian norms and practices significantly shaped its moral and legal views on sexuality.
Drawing on a wide array of primary sources, the study highlights the tension between official ecclesiastical views and the lived experiences of individuals, while also addressing the ways in which various aspects of sexuality – such as marital life, chastity, adultery, sexual misconduct, and prostitution – were understood, regulated, and punished by both secular and religious authorities. It analyzes the influence of Western European sexual ethics, especially through the lens of the Church's doctrines, and contrasts these with the social and legal realities of life in medieval Poland. The book also examines how Christian ideals of love and sexuality intersected with local cultural practices, particularly in the context of courtly love.
This book is aimed at scholars and students of medieval history, religious studies, and gender studies, as well as those interested in the history of sexuality. It will appeal to anyone researching the convergence of Christianity and medieval Polish society.
Frequently asked questions
- Essential is ideal for learners and professionals who enjoy exploring a wide range of subjects. Access the Essential Library with 800,000+ trusted titles and best-sellers across business, personal growth, and the humanities. Includes unlimited reading time and Standard Read Aloud voice.
- Complete: Perfect for advanced learners and researchers needing full, unrestricted access. Unlock 1.4M+ books across hundreds of subjects, including academic and specialized titles. The Complete Plan also includes advanced features like Premium Read Aloud and Research Assistant.
Please note we cannot support devices running on iOS 13 and Android 7 or earlier. Learn more about using the app.
Information
Table of contents
- Cover
- Half-Title Page
- Series Page
- Title Page
- Copyright Page
- Table of Contents
- Acknowledgments
- List of abbreviations
- Note to the text
- Introduction
- 1 Sexual ethics in the times of Bolesław I the Brave: The first stage of Christianization
- 2 Clerical celibacy
- 3 The formation of Christian views on marriage
- 4 Debitum coniugale: The place of sexual intercourse in marriage
- 5 Courtly love in medieval Poland?
- 6 The portrayal of chaste marriage in hagiography
- 7 Christian morality in the work of preachers
- 8 Marriage cases before ecclesiastical courts
- 9 Prostitution in late medieval Poland
- 10 Homosexuality in medieval Poland: Sources and silences
- Conclusion
- Bibliography
- Index