Origins of Virginity
Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society
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Unpacking Virginity: Historical and Cultural Perspectives
This chapter explores the layered and often contradictory concept of virginity, focusing on its historical and cultural implications, particularly for women. Through discussions with a medieval literature scholar, the conversation reveals how virginity has been defined and perceived across different societies and epochs, often reflecting patriarchal values. The chapter also addresses the confusion surrounding virginity among young people today, influenced by societal narratives and abstinence education, highlighting the complexity of defining this fundamental aspect of identity.
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