Cases Quote by Barbara Tuchman
“The nastiness of women [in the 14th century] was generally perceived at the close of life when a man began to worry about hell, and his sexual desire in any case fading.”
About This Quote
Source Book: A Distant Mirror, 1978
Historical attitudes toward women's sexuality were shaped by religious fears and aging, linking moral anxiety to gendered stereotypes.
In simple terms: Age and religion influenced how women’s sexuality was judged.
Recognize how cultural fears shape gender stereotypes.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- medieval society
- modern gender debates
- religious discourse
- age-related bias
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do modern fears affect perceptions of women?
- What role does religion play in gender stereotypes?
Historical views may not apply today.