Medieval theology is often associated with strict religious teachings and a repression of sexuality.
There are hidden queer currents that suggest otherwise. These currents can be found in religious texts, art, and literature from the time period. In this article, I will explore the various ways in which medieval people expressed their sexual desires and identities through religion, art, and philosophy.
Religious Texts
One way in which medieval people explored their sexuality was through religious texts. Some religious writings contained coded messages about same-sex desire.
The medieval mystic Hildegard von Bingen wrote about her relationship with God in highly sensual language, describing herself as being married to him in "the bridal chamber." This term has been interpreted as a reference to same-sex marriage.
Some Christian texts describe God as having both masculine and feminine qualities, suggesting that he could have relationships with both men and women.
Art
Another place where queerness was present in medieval society was in art. Many paintings and sculptures depicted scenes of intimacy between men or women. One famous example is the "Sappho and Erinna" fresco in Pompeii, which shows two women holding each other close and exchanging a kiss. The artwork suggests that same-sex relationships were accepted in ancient Rome, though it does not explicitly state so. Another example is the "Prince Vjasceslav's Court" mosaic in Kiev, which depicts two male figures embracing each other in an affectionate manner. This image has led many scholars to believe that same-sex relationships were common in medieval Russia.
Philosophy
Philosophers of the time period also discussed gender and sexuality in ways that suggest a more nuanced view than what is often assumed. Thomas Aquinas, for instance, argued that sex was necessary for procreation, but that love was its primary purpose. He believed that humans should seek out physical and spiritual unions with others, regardless of their gender. Some scholars have interpreted this as suggesting that Aquinas was open to nontraditional relationships.
There are hidden queer currents in medieval theology and art that suggest a more nuanced view of sexuality than is commonly understood. While these currents may not be widely acknowledged today, they provide insights into how people explored their desires and identities in times past.
What were the hidden queer currents in medieval theology and art?
"Medieval theology and art had numerous hidden queer currents that shaped cultural norms and religious beliefs during this period. One of these currents was the depiction of same-sex relationships in religious texts and artwork, which challenged traditional understandings of gender roles and sexuality.