Women

And

Sexuality

Copy of Dega's Standing Nude. Photo Courtesy of R.J. O'Connor's Studio

Throughout history, tradition and trends in sexuality have subjected women to various roles in the bedroom. The evolution of these roles is often referred to as the "sexual revolution." In the beginning of time, women simply played the role of the submissive partner. Considering the modern woman, however, it is clear that female sexuality has undergone drastic changes. A woman's sexuality is very important. The sexuality of each woman is unique and thus, defines a part of her character. A woman can use her sexuality to obtain goals and aspirations within society.

SEXUALITY AND GREAT WOMEN OF HISTORY

Cleopatra of Egypt

Cleopatra is well known for her using her sexuality to enforce getting her way. It is recorded within historical texts that Cleopatra saved her country many times. Through secret meetings with potential enemies and through the use of her seductive powers, Cleopatra won over many of her country's enemies (Zacks 22). Julius Caesar and Marc Antony, great enemies of Egypt, were quickly won over by Cleopatra. Through cleverness and wittiness, Cleopatra ensured her greatness.

Catherine the Great

Catherine the Great of Russia was notorious for her sexual acts with administrators of the government (Zacks 255). For example, Catherine was having a torrid love affair with her chief minister, who later provided her with young men for her sexual desires. Even though many men profited from her lavish gifts, Catherine always held the upper hand and who could snatch the carpet from under any young mans's feet.

INTRODUCTION OF LESBIANISM

Lesbianism introduces a new depth to the study of women's sexuality. Many lesbian women claim that being with another woman sexually means having someone actually know what you desire and how to fulfill your needs. Lesbianism has greatly progressed throughout history. Many women have been fighting the restraints of heterosexuality for years and are still today. Acceptance is very important for many women in their journey to being open with their sexuality. Lesbianism has its roots in biblical scripture, Catholic law, English law, and Puritanism (Licata/Petersen 19). Historical law dictated that a woman abusing her sexuality with another woman was liable to punishment. As early as A.D. 342, lesbianism was a recognized practice within the Roman Empire. Women were not only using their sexuality to serve the purpose of men, but also to serve the purpose of each other. According to Louis Crompton, author of The Myth of Lesbian Impunity: Capital Laws from 1270 to 1791, "the first Roman Christian Imperial laws explicitly penalizing homosexuality use language that specifically threatens death to men only; the scope of the law of 342 A.D. (cum vir) was subsequently broadened by medieval jurists to cover women" (Historical Perspectives on Homosexuality,12).

It is interesting to discover that the typical Puritans that we are taught about in history class are not exactly as pure as they seem. In fact, according to court records and govenor's memoirs, female Puritans were engaging in lesbianism (Zacks 185). Though women participated in the act of lesbianism, society did not accept this and punished this action.

Suprisingly enough, lesbianism was virtually overlooked between the fourteenth and eighteenth centuries. It was conceived that only men were homosexual deviants. Women were not suspected to participate in such vulgar and unbecoming acts. Today, only religious laws and state regulations over same-sex marriages limit lesbianism. That is not to say that hate crimes do not occur. Lesbianism, obviously, is not widely accepted by everyone.

In conclusion, sexuality plays a large role within a woman's life both historically and in present day. Evolving from being subserviant to independent, female sexuality has given women a new look towards the future. The sexuality of women has not stagnated, but remains an ongoing revolution.

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