Alcohol, Sex and Gender in Late Medieval and Early Modern Europe

Download or read book Alcohol, Sex and Gender in Late Medieval and Early Modern Europe written by L. Martin and published by Springer. This book was released on 2001-01-19 with total page 211 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This book examines drinking and attitudes to alcohol consumption in late medieval and early modern England, France, and Italy, especially as they related to sexual and violent behavior and to gender relations. According to widespread beliefs, the consumption of alcohol led to increased sexual activity among both men and women, and it also led to disorderly conduct among women and violent conduct among men. Dr Lynn shows how alcohol was a fundamental part of the diets of most people, including women, resulting in daily drinking of large amounts of ale, beer, or wine. This study offers an intimate insight into both the altered states induced by alcohol, and, by opposition, into normal relations in family, community, and society.