Rome was one of the most influential ancient civilizations known for its advanced technology, architecture, arts, literature, philosophy, religion, law, etc., which played an important role in shaping modern society. Rome has been studied extensively because it is believed to be a model for many countries in different aspects such as politics, military affairs, social norms, moral values, etc. Roman society was highly heteronormative, where same-sex sexual behaviors were morally, ritually, and socially regulated in religious contexts. The article explains how these behaviors were perceived differently from each other and what led them to be restricted in Roman society.
Same-sex sexual behavior refers to sexual activities between people of the same gender, including homosexuality, bisexuality, pansexuality, and nonbinary sexuality. These behaviors were common in ancient societies, but they had different views about them based on their culture and religion. In Roman society, same-sex sexual behaviors were frowned upon, seen as unnatural and abnormal, and were considered immoral acts. Same-sex relations in Roman society were primarily associated with prostitution, which was illegal, especially when performed by males engaging in anal sex (Fabio, 2013). Prostitutes engaged in same-sex practices or were required to perform them for male clients who paid extra money (Dover, 2007).
There were also instances where men openly enjoyed sexual relationships with other men without paying anything.
In terms of religious contexts, Romans held diverse views towards same-sex sexual behaviors. Some viewed them as acceptable while others saw them as sinful acts that could lead to punishment from gods.
The Greeks regarded same-sex sexual activities as natural, beautiful, and even divine.
Rome adopted a more conservative view because of its military values and political structure, which made it difficult to accept such behaviors. Religious leaders condemned same-sex sexual practices as forbidden and against Roman laws. The Bible teaches that homosexuals will not inherit heaven after death, making same-sex sexual behaviors taboo among Christians living in Rome. This explains why some Roman emperors persecuted homosexuals during their reigns, including Hadrian and Nero (Hadrian & Nero, n.d.).
Socially, same-sex sexual behaviors were regulated by social norms and cultural beliefs. People who participated in these behaviors faced stigmatization, discrimination, harassment, violence, etc.
Emperor Claudius outlawed pederasty (sexual relations between an adult man and adolescent boy), which was common in Greek culture (Fabio, 2013). Same-sex relations involving females were not explicitly prohibited but considered indecent (Dover, 2007). Women were expected to be modest, reserved, and virtuous, meaning they could not engage in public displays of affection with other women or have sex with them (Harris, 2016). Men, on the other hand, could engage in public displays of affection without much scrutiny from society. In fact, it is believed that most Romans engaged in same-sex activities privately because of societal norms (Harris, 2016).
Roman society had strict rules regarding same-sex sexual behavior, especially in religious contexts, where same-sex relations were seen as immoral acts against godly order. Although there were instances when homosexuality was accepted, such as in military situations or among aristocrats, Roman society generally regarded it as unacceptable. Same-sex practices were highly regulated based on gender roles, with men being more likely to engage in public display while women were required to maintain chastity and virtue. This explains why Rome is known for its heteronormative values and conservative views towards sexuality.
How were same-sex sexual behaviors morally, ritually, and socially regulated in Roman religious contexts?
The ancient Romans had strict laws regarding same-sex sexual behavior and its moral implications on social order. The main concept of sexuality was one that focused on procreation, with any form of non-procreative sex seen as unnatural and taboo. As such, homosexual activity was not only restricted by law but also discouraged through social norms and cultural values.