Abstract

POTGIETER, Stella. Die liggaamlike misbruik van kinders as emporium in antieke tye. Studia Hist. Ecc. [online]. 2011, vol.37, n.3, pp.1-18. ISSN 2412-4265.

Ancient times were characterised by strict regulations regarding male sexuality, and individuals made no decisions regarding their sexuality. Males were expected to take part in certain homosexual and sodomising rituals at certain times, in the correct company and according to the appropriate rules. Especially those in the highest echelons of society were preoccupied with personal freedom, hedonism and self-centredness regarding the human body and sexuality. In this paternalistic society power was lodged with the male head of the household who had power over everything and everyone, even over the sexuality of others. "Empire" as control of the powerful over the bodies of others was common during ancient times. Youths were placed under the care of older males for pedagogical reasons and bonding, and these included sexual relations. Enslaved youths were also sexually abused, which shows that total dominance creates the foundation of ancient ethics. Rituals played an important role in these times and initiation rituals were used to recruit youths. Sexual relations where one partner was dominant and the other submissive were commonplace. Fathers also had power over life and death and children were only recognised as living beings with needs once the father accepted the child. Women were only indirectly considered as vessels of reproduction and satisfaction, and were not allowed to enjoy sexual intercourse. Early church leaders did not react positively to sodomy and regarded it as a sin, but still did not write about it. Ancient times are recognised as an era preoccupied with power - power over everyone and everything - even sex. This article looks at "empire" from this perspective of exercising power over the bodies of the young.

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