Mary Wellesley, expert on changing language of women's anatomy and sexuality, discusses historical evolution of female genital terminology, gendered language in work roles, impact of language choices on perceptions, and reflections on parenthood and language history.
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Quick takeaways
Evolution of female anatomy terms from descriptive to medicalized reflects societal views on women's bodies.
Historical texts show diverse perspectives on female sexuality, challenging modern taboos and embracing liberation.
Deep dives
Evolution of Female Anatomy Terminology
The podcast discusses the evolution of terminology related to female anatomy, highlighting the shift from rich, descriptive terms to more medicalized and Latinate vocabulary. Examples like 'quita' from Old English and the medicalization of terms like 'genitals' are explored, showcasing changes in language over time.
Exploration of Female Sexuality in History
The episode delves into historical perspectives on female sexuality, mentioning Jane Sharp's 17th-century 'Midwives' book' and her unabashed discussion of female sexual health. It contrasts Victorian values with more liberated attitudes in medieval texts, portraying a diverse range of expressions about the female body and sexuality.
Historical Attitudes Towards Menstruation
The podcast reviews Jenny Nutchell's book, 'Mother Tongue,' where she discusses the historical views and terminology around menstruation. It sheds light on the euphemistic term 'period' and contrasts the shame associated with menstrual blood in modern society to past interpretations that viewed it as a natural bodily process.
Gendered Language and Women's Work
The episode examines the gendered nature of language and its reflection on women's work throughout history. It discusses how certain jobs were associated with women, like the 'Book Woman' and 'Egg Wife,' challenging traditional assumptions about gender roles. The podcast also touches upon the idea of 'mother tongue' and the power of language in shaping perceptions and experiences.
Modern English speakers struggle to find sexual terms that aren’t either obscene or scientific, but that wasn’t always the case. In a recent review of Jenni Nuttall’s Mother Tongue, Mary Wellesley connects our linguistic squeamishness to changing ideas about women and sexuality. She joins Tom to discuss the changing language of women’s anatomy, work and lives.