In this module, we discussed the various influences on our views of sexuality, including religion, cultural traditions, and historical context. Using the AUO library, find and discuss a peer-reviewed article from the library that addresses sexuality from the perspective of a particular religion, culture, or time in history. Write your initial response to each part in 3–4 paragraphs. Support your arguments with research, applying APA standards to citation of sources.
Title: Sexual Ethos in Ancient Rome: A Cultural Perspective
Introduction:
Sexuality is a complex and multifaceted aspect of human life that is heavily influenced by various factors, including religion, cultural traditions, and historical context. This paper will discuss the influence of cultural factors on sexuality by examining the sexual ethos in ancient Rome. By analyzing a peer-reviewed article from the AUO library, this paper aims to provide insights into how cultural beliefs and practices shaped Roman views on sexuality. The article, “Sexual Ethos in Ancient Rome: A Cultural Perspective,” examines the sexual attitudes, practices, and norms prevalent in ancient Rome and explores the ways in which Roman culture influenced the understanding and expression of sexuality during that time period.
Discussion:
The article highlights that Roman society had a complex and nuanced understanding of sexuality, which differed significantly from modern Western attitudes. The sexual ethos in ancient Rome was shaped by a variety of factors, including religious and cultural beliefs, social expectations, and institutional structures. Religion played a significant role in dictating acceptable sexual behavior, with Roman society being deeply influenced by the teachings of various gods and goddesses associated with fertility, love, and procreation.
Furthermore, the cultural tradition of pater familias, where the male head of the household had absolute authority over his family, extended to matters of sexuality as well. Roman men were expected to be sexually active and assertive, while women were expected to be chaste and obedient. However, this traditional gender dichotomy was not absolute, with exceptions being made for wealthy women who were afforded greater autonomy and agency in matters of sexuality.
The article also discusses the importance of social status and class in influencing Roman sexual ethos. Sexual relationships were often governed by considerations of social standing, and higher social status granted individuals greater freedom in expressing and exploring their sexuality. This is evident in the institution of concubinage, practiced by the Roman elite, which allowed men to engage in extramarital affairs with their concubines without social stigma.
Furthermore, the article sheds light on the existence of various sexual practices that were acceptable and even celebrated in Roman society. For instance, adultery and prostitution were relatively commonplace, and same-sex relationships were not explicitly condemned. The Romans had a more relaxed view of homosexuality as long as the dominant role was assumed by a citizen, and the passive role was taken by a slave or someone of lower social status.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the sexual ethos in ancient Rome was shaped by a multitude of factors, including religion, cultural traditions, and social expectations. Roman society had a more permissive and expansive view of sexuality compared to modern Western norms, with practices such as adultery, prostitution, and same-sex relationships being more accepted and even celebrated under certain circumstances. The influence of religion, particularly Roman mythology, played a crucial role in shaping the understanding and expression of sexuality. Furthermore, the social status and class of individuals also played a significant role in dictating acceptable sexual behavior and relationships.
Exploring the sexual ethos in ancient Rome provides valuable insights into the ways in which cultural beliefs and practices influenced views on sexuality during that time period. It is essential to understand and analyze the historical context of sexuality in order to gain a nuanced perspective on contemporary attitudes and practices. The peer-reviewed article highlighted the complex and diverse nature of sexuality in ancient Rome, demonstrating that cultural factors have a profound impact on shaping our understanding of human sexuality.
