The sexual practices of ancient Greeks varied throughout different periods and city-states, and attitudes toward sexuality were complex. Here are some aspects of ancient Greek sexual practices:
Pederasty: Pederasty was a socially accepted relationship between an adult man (known as the erastes) and a younger male (known as the eromenos). It was not purely sexual but also involved mentorship and education. The relationship was expected to end once the younger male reached adulthood.
Homosexuality: Same-sex relationships between adult men were also known to exist, although they were not as openly discussed as pederastic relationships. Some famous examples include the poet Sappho, who wrote about her love for women, and the philosopher Plato, who described same-sex relationships in his dialogues.
Heterosexuality: Marriage and procreation were highly valued in ancient Greece. Heterosexual relationships were considered the norm, and the primary purpose of marriage was to produce legitimate heirs.
Sacred Prostitution: In certain ancient Greek cities, such as Corinth, sacred prostitution was practiced. Female prostitutes, known as hierodules, served in temples as a form of religious devotion. The practice was associated with fertility rituals and was not necessarily considered immoral.
Concubinage: Wealthy men often had concubines, who were female companions and sexual partners outside of marriage. Concubines did not have the same social status as wives but were still recognized as part of the household.
It's important to note that the sexual practices of ancient Greece were not universally followed or accepted throughout the entire ancient Greek world. Different city-states had different customs and attitudes towards sexuality, and there were variations across time periods as well. The information available on ancient Greek sexual practices comes from various historical sources, including literature, artwork, and philosophical texts.
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