Views on Sexuality in Croatian Medieval Sources
By Stella Fatovic-Ferencic and Marija-Ana Dürrigl
Croatian Medical Journal, Vol. 45:1 (2004)
Abstract: We analyzed attitudes towards sexuality during the medieval period in Croatia. For that purpose we investigated numerous medical and literary texts, statutes, and specific natural philosophical work entitled “Lucidar”.Contrary tomedical books, which had a low impact on the broader community, literary textswere important in spreadingmessages on sexuality, as well as in shaping medieval mentality and creating sexual taboos. Consequently, a specific perspective and culture influenced rules and practices for community protection, as well as various levels of social systems.Within the three large groups of sources,weselected those typical both in their content (ideas) and forms, and representative in shaping attitudes toward sexuality on our territory. The first group of sources (examples from literary genres) were identified as an important vehicle in transferring messages of morality, moral obligation and sexuality in general. Deeply rooted in Christianty they became a pattern according to which the way of life and value were measured, a specific view toward sexuality was shaped, and notions of stigma and taboo articulated.
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Tags: Croatia, Medicine, Social History
