Sexual Practices and the Medieval Church : Book Review

In "Sexual Practices and the Medieval Church" by Vern L. Bullough, the author dives into the intricate and often contradictory attitudes of the medieval Church towards sexuality. He explores a wide range of sexual practices, such as celibacy, homosexuality, prostitution, and contraception, and analyzes the Church's efforts to regulate and control them. Drawing from a diverse array of primary sources including canon law, theological treatises, court records, and personal accounts, Bullough presents a nuanced and well-researched perspective on this captivating aspect of medieval history.

One of the strengths of this book is Bullough's ability to navigate the complexities of the Church's sexual teachings and practices without oversimplifying or passing moral judgment. He takes a well-balanced approach, considering both the ideals and the realities of sexual behavior within the Church during this time period. By highlighting the tensions between the official teachings of the Church and the actual behaviors of clergy and laity, Bullough sheds light on the intricate nature of medieval society and its sexual customs.

Furthermore, Bullough's meticulous research is evident throughout the book. His extensive use of primary sources allows for a comprehensive and detailed understanding of medieval sexual practices. By drawing from a wide variety of texts, he paints a rich picture of the complexities and contradictions surrounding sexuality in the medieval Church.

Moreover, Bullough's writing style is engaging and accessible, making the book suitable for both general readers and scholars. He presents complex ideas in a clear and organized manner, ensuring that readers can follow the narrative without getting overwhelmed by academic jargon or technical language. This accessibility is a key strength of the book, as it invites a diverse range of readers to engage with and learn from the topic.

Overall, "Sexual Practices and the Medieval Church" offers a thorough examination of the intricate world of sexual practices within the medieval Church. With his in-depth research, balanced approach, and accessible writing style, Vern L. Bullough provides a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the intersection of religion and sexuality in the Middle Ages.

What are readers saying?

"Sexual Practices and the Medieval Church," written by Vern L. Bullough, tackles the controversial topic of sexuality within the medieval church. The book has generated a range of opinions among readers.

Some reviewers praised Bullough's scholarly approach, commending his extensive research and ability to provide a comprehensive overview of prevailing sexual practices and attitudes during the medieval era. These readers appreciated the author's efforts to shed light on a topic often overlooked or misunderstood.

However, others found the book difficult to navigate, describing Bullough's writing style as overly academic and challenging for readers without a background in medieval history or religious studies. Some reviewers also criticized the book for lacking a clear argument or overarching thesis, which resulted in a disjointed and unfocused reading experience.

In addition, a few readers expressed frustration with the book's limited scope, suggesting that Bullough focused too narrowly on European perspectives without adequately exploring the global context of medieval sexual practices. These reviewers believed that a more comprehensive examination of the topic would have been beneficial.

Nevertheless, many readers considered "Sexual Practices and the Medieval Church" to be a valuable resource for those interested in the intersection of religion and sexuality. They lauded Bullough for his candid exploration of a taboo subject and admired his dedication to presenting a detailed and nuanced analysis. While the book may not be accessible to all readers due to its academic nature, it remains a significant contribution to the field for those specifically interested in medieval sexual practices and the church's influence on societal attitudes toward sexuality.

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