The Once and Future Sex: Going Medieval on Women's Roles in Society

The Once and Future Sex: Exploring Medieval Thinking on Women's Roles in Society In the Middle Ages, women were often seen as embodying two opposing ideals: the perfect mother and the oversexed sinner. This dichotomy was rooted in a blend of classical Greek and Roman philosophy and Christian theology. Yet, there were also remarkable women who defied these expectations, such as Eleanor of Aquitaine and Hildegard of Bingen. This book delves into the lives of these women and others, revealing a more nuanced understanding of medieval women's roles in society. Medieval thinkers subscribed to a beauty ideal based on the mythical Helen of Troy, while also casting a shadow of Eve's supposed sinfulness over women. However, the reality of women's lives was far more complex. They worked as farmers, brewers, textile workers, artists, and artisans, paving the way for new ideas about women's nature, intellect, and ability. By examining the lives of these women, we can gain a deeper understanding of the restrictive expectations placed on medieval women and how they continue to influence our ideas of women today. This book boldly questions why our ideas of women have changed over time, yet we struggle to reimagine them in a more equitable way. By exploring the past, we can work towards a more inclusive and equitable future.