Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society Origins of Virginity
Aug 26, 2025
Join Anke Bernau, a senior lecturer in medieval literature, as she unravels the intriguing myths and historical narratives surrounding virginity. She dives into the cultural implications for women across different eras and the societal pressures that shape these perceptions. The discussion highlights the harrowing tales of virgin saints and critiques the misconceptions tied to virginity and the hymen. Bernau also explores how modern purity culture continues to influence identity and sexuality, revealing virginity as a complex journey rather than a simple milestone.
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Virginity As Social Construction
- Virginity is a social construct with no reliable physical test.
- Historical tests like urination behavior were pseudoscientific and culturally driven.
Religion Shaped Gendered Virginity
- Christianity initially valued male and female virginity equally.
- Institutional power and gendered biology narratives later shifted emphasis onto women's virginity.
Virginity And Property Rights
- Control of women's sexuality tied directly to property and inheritance.
- Ensuring legitimate offspring motivated strict emphasis on female virginity.
