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(Reference retrieved automatically from SciELO through information on FAPESP grant and its corresponding number as mentioned in the publication by the authors.)

Male Homoerotic Practices in Achaemenid Persia: An Overview

Full text
Author(s):
Matheus Treuk Medeiros de Araujo [1]
Total Authors: 1
Affiliation:
[1] Universidade de São Paulo - Brasil
Total Affiliations: 1
Document type: Journal article
Source: ARCHAI-REVISTA DE ESTUDOS SOBRE AS ORIGENS DO PENSAMENTO OCIDENTAL; v. 34, 2024-10-07.
Abstract

Abstract: Descriptions of Ancient Persian male homoeroticism come mainly from Classical sources, which, however, seem to present divergent testimonies regarding this practice. Some authors apparently provide proof for its widespread acceptance, whereas others, particularly later authors, emphasized its prohibition. Considering the many difficulties involved in the reconstruction of Persian history through the eyes of classical Greeks and Romans, this article aims to provide a brief overview of the subject, with some clues to the question of the origin, form, and tolerance of same-sex love in Achaemenid Persia. We agree that homoerotic practices were attested and likely accepted at some level in Achaemenid Persia. However, we believe that the evidence available to us is not enough to obtain a full understanding of this phenomenon. It is also stressed that not every Greek or Roman reference to Persian male homoeroticism should be taken at face value, as some are distorted and fictitious or lack firsthand knowledge. Finally, we briefly address the image of eunuchs as sexual partners of Achaemenid kings. (AU)

FAPESP's process: 22/07801-8 - The Place of Court Eunuchs in the Neo-Assyrian and Achaemenid Empires: a Comparative Analysis.
Grantee:Matheus Treuk Medeiros de Araujo
Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
FAPESP's process: 23/01822-6 - Court eunuchs in the Neo-Assyrian and Achaemenid monumental reliefs: between Assurnasirpal II (883-859 BCE) and Darius I (522-486 BCE)
Grantee:Matheus Treuk Medeiros de Araujo
Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Post-doctor