Historical Homos cover image

Historical Homos

Samurai Sissies: Getting Railed In Medieval Japan (feat. Dylan Adler)

Sep 5, 2024
Dylan Adler, a Japanese-Jewish comedian known for his unique humor, dives into the fascinating and often humorous world of homosexuality in medieval Japan. He discusses the intricate relationships between monks and their young protégés, showcasing how societal norms influenced intimacy. The pair explores the nuanced role of samurai culture, from homoerotic bonds to the use of quirky sexual lubricants. They even share tips on romance from the past, making history both entertaining and enlightening!
01:11:29

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Historical Japanese homosexuality flourished under Buddhist influence, where relationships between older monks and younger acolytes were culturally normative.
  • The samurai class perpetuated sexual relationships among men, facilitating social mobility through loyalty and intimacy governing their cultural bonds.

Deep dives

Historical Context of Homosexuality in Medieval Japan

The history of homosexuality in Japan can be traced back to the early periods influenced by Buddhism, where relationships between older monks and younger acolytes, known as chigo, flourished. These boy-novices were not just involved in sexual activities but were also seen as integral parts of the educational and cultural frameworks within Buddhist monasteries. The relationships often combined elements of mentorship, romance, and education and were deemed normative within the social constructs of the time. This historical perspective reveals how deeply rooted queer relationships were in the fabric of Japanese society dating back hundreds of years.

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