Ancient Greece and Rome: The Dark Reality of Child Prostitution and Sexuality

The question of whether men in ancient Greece and Rome engaged in sexual activities with boys has been a subject of considerable debate and controversy. While it is true that ancient societies had more flexible attitudes towards sexuality compared to modern times, the reality of child prostitution and pedophilia still casts a shadow over the historical narrative.

Common Attitudes and Laws in Ancient Societies

During the time of the ancient Greeks and Romans, attitudes towards sex were notably more flexible and forgiving than they are today. Sex for the purpose of procreation was typically seen as a duty, while sexual relationships based on personal passion or arranged marriages were more common. Sexual activities with minors, however, were strictly prohibited by law.

Legal protections for children were already in place, although the definitions of these laws often varied. The law was rigid against egregious forms of sexual abuse, such as defilement of very young children, but more general laws were left vague to allow for fabricated charges against individuals. These laws provided a dangerous tool for political opponents to use against each other.

The Dark Side of Ancient Greece and Rome

Despite the legal measures in place, the historical records reveal a darker reality in ancient Greece and Rome. Infanticide was common, and older men often engaged in sexual relationships with young boys, which was widely accepted practice. Boy brothels were prevalent in many Greek cities, and the practice of child prostitution was so widespread in Rome that special taxes and holidays were established for the sex trade.

In the Roman arenas, girls and sometimes even boys were raped and subjected to acts of bestiality, further highlighting the pervasiveness of child exploitation. These practices were part of the broader societal acceptability of various forms of sexual depravity, which included incest, sodomy, and even the ritualized sacrifice of children to pagan gods.

Biblical and Mosaic Law Context

The Bible, particularly the Old Testament, provides an account of the practices in the ancient Near East. The cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, notorious for their depravity, were known for their indulgence in pedophilia among other vices. When the Hebrews moved into the land of Canaan, they encountered an environment steeped in these practices. The Mosaic Law, as recorded in the Torah, explicitly forbade acts of pedophilia, incest, and other forms of sexual deviance to establish a clear moral and legal boundary for the people of Israel.

Conclusion

Ancient Greece and Rome, known for their considerable contributions to Western civilization, also harbored a dark history of child exploitation and pedophilia. While the societies possessed a degree of flexibility in their sexual norms, the reality of child prostitution and sexual abuse cannot be ignored. Understanding these historical realities is crucial for a comprehensive view of the past and for addressing present-day issues related to child protection and human rights.

Keywords: ancient Greece, ancient Rome, child prostitution, pedophilia, sexuality