Amidst the knights, castles, and epic battles, the sexual lives of medieval people were shrouded in mystery and myth. Here are 20 shocking facts about sex in the Medieval Ages that you probably didn’t know.
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1. Virginity Tests for Brides
Medieval brides often underwent virginity tests before their wedding night. These tests, though unreliable, were intended to confirm a woman’s purity, which was highly valued in medieval society.
2. Chastity Belts
Contrary to popular belief, chastity belts were not widely used to keep women virtuous. Instead, they were more likely to be instruments of control or mythical tales exaggerated over time.
3. Public Bedding Ceremonies
It was common for newlywed couples to have their marriage consummated in a public bedding ceremony, where witnesses, including family members, would ensure the marriage was consummated.
4. Church’s Control Over Sexual Practices
The Catholic Church had a strong influence on sexual behavior, condemning practices like homosexuality, masturbation, and sex outside of marriage, while promoting procreative sex within marriage.
5. Trial by Congress
Some medieval legal systems allowed for a “trial by congress,” where a man accused of impotence had to prove his sexual capabilities in front of a jury.
6. The Role of Prostitution
Prostitution was widespread and even regulated in some cities. Prostitutes played a significant role in medieval urban economies and were often protected by city laws.
7. Brothels and the Church
Many brothels were located near churches and monasteries, reflecting the complex relationship between religious institutions and the regulation of morality.
8. Sexual Positions and Sin
The missionary position was considered the only acceptable position for procreative sex by the Church. Other positions were deemed sinful and could supposedly affect the birth of deformed children.
9. Sex During Lent
Sex was strictly prohibited during Lent and other holy periods. This restriction could amount to over 100 days a year, significantly influencing medieval sexual practices.
10. Hygiene and Sexual Health
Poor hygiene and the lack of effective contraceptives led to widespread sexual health issues. Herbal remedies and rudimentary condoms made from animal intestines were some of the solutions.
11. Contraceptive Methods
Medieval people used a variety of contraceptive methods, including coitus interruptus (withdrawal), herbal potions, and amulets, though their effectiveness was questionable.
12. Sexual Penalties
Adulterers faced severe punishments, including fines, public humiliation, or even death. The severity of the penalty often depended on the social status of the individuals involved.
13. The Role of Midwives
Midwives were not only responsible for childbirth but also provided sexual health advice and abortions, often risking severe punishment if caught.
14. Medical Beliefs About Sex
Medieval medical theories, influenced by Galen and Hippocrates, suggested that both men and women needed to experience orgasm for conception to occur.
15. Homosexuality
Homosexual acts were harshly condemned and punished by the Church, often resulting in severe penalties such as castration or execution.
16. Erotic Literature
Despite the Church’s prohibitions, erotic literature and poetry flourished, often in the form of courtly love stories that celebrated romantic and sexual passion.
17. Witch Hunts and Sexuality
Accusations of witchcraft were often linked to female sexuality. Women accused of being witches were frequently charged with using their sexuality to harm men or perform evil deeds.
18. Courtly Love
Courtly love was a medieval European literary conception of love that emphasized nobility and chivalry. Often extramarital, it idealized passionate, but typically non-sexual, relationships.
19. Premarital Sex
While officially condemned, premarital sex was not uncommon. Couples often engaged in a practice called “bundling,” where they would sleep together in the same bed with a barrier between them to test compatibility before marriage.