Scared of Sex - Medieval Monks and Others

Interview with Michael Barbezat

Oh dear! Those religious medievals were quite obsessed with SEX.
In this conversation, David Ayliffe interviews Michael Barbezat, a research fellow in the Institute for Religion and Critical Inquiry at the Australian Catholic University. They discuss the intersection of religion and sexuality, particularly in relation to sex shame and conservative religious beliefs. They explore topics such as biblical interpretation, the views of theologian (Saint) Augustine on sex and pleasure, the repression of pleasure in religious contexts, and the changing views on sexuality throughout history. They also touch on the importance of open communication about sexuality and the need to support LGBTQ+ individuals in oppressive societies.

See "Sex - Medieval Men's Flow Chart (sorry)"

Takeaways

1. The medieval view of sexuality was primarily focused on procreative sex, with non-procreative sex seen as sinful.
2. The repression of pleasure in religious contexts has had a lasting impact on societal views of sex and sexuality.
3. The interpretation of biblical texts has evolved over time, and different theologians have had varying views on sexual ethics.
4. The intersection of religion and sexuality continues to be a complex and evolving topic, with diverse perspectives and interpretations.
5. Open communication about sexuality is crucial for creating a more inclusive and accepting society.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:16 Michael's Interest in Religion and Sexuality

03:56 The Catholic Tradition and Sexuality

05:28 Michael's Specialty in Medieval Studies

06:24 Religion's Role in Persecuting LGBTQ+ Individuals

07:54 Biblical Literacy and Interpretation

08:52 Multiple Senses of the Bible

10:37 The Revised Standard Version Bible and Translation of Homosexuality

12:06 The Challenge of Changing Religious Beliefs

13:17 The Unchanging Teachings of the Church

14:30 Augustine's Views on Sex and Pleasure

15:10 The Repression of Pleasure

16:04 The Connection Between Pleasure and Love

17:06 Sex as a Symbol of Human Disorder

18:25 Sex Shame and its Impact on Everyone

19:21 The Harmful Effects of Purity Codes

19:49 The Flow Chart of Medieval Sexual Ethics

20:54 The Division Between Procreative and Non-Procreative Sex

22:23 The Medieval View of Homosexual Sex

23:05 The Role of Pleasure in Reproduction

24:04 The Diverse Views on Pleasure in Medieval Theology

25:07 The Repression of Pleasure and its Consequences

26:17 The Challenge of Integrating Medicine and Theology

27:12 The Uncontrolled Potentials of Pleasure

28:09 The Need to Balance Pleasure and Goodness

29:06 The Changing Views on Marriage and Relationships

30:24 The Labor Unit Function of Families

31:18 Homosocial Environments and Institutions

32:54 The Repression of Sexuality and its Psychological Impact

33:58 The Impact of Silence and Repression

36:27 The Importance of Open Communication about Sexuality

38:06 The Urgency of Supporting LGBTQ+ Individuals in Oppressive Societies

39:28 Conclusion and Call to Action