Zooerasty, Zoophilia, and Bestiality: A Historical Overview
Bestiality, also known as zooerasty and zoophilia, is an act of sexual activity between a human and an animal. Bestiality has been around since ancient times, and has been documented in numerous forms throughout history. This article will provide a brief overview of the history of bestiality, its implications, and its current state.
Definition
Bestiality is defined as any physical sexual activity between a human and an animal. This includes both direct contact between the two, as well as indirect contact such as sexual fantasies or using animals for sexual gratification. This definition does not include any acts of cruelty or harm to the animal.
History
Bestiality has been documented since ancient times. Ancient Greek and Roman texts depict bestiality as an accepted form of sexual activity. This is evidenced by the existence of numerous illustrations depicting humans engaging in sexual acts with animals, as well as in the writings of Greek authors such as Aristophanes and Plutarch.
In the Middle Ages, bestiality was also documented. In the twelfth century, Pope Innocent III declared it a grave sin. However, the Church’s position on bestiality was not consistent, as some theologians argued that it was permissible in certain cases.
Bestiality was also a common theme in literature and art during the Renaissance. In particular, the works of William Shakespeare and William Hogarth often featured scenes of humans engaging in sexual acts with animals.
In the modern era, bestiality became a criminal offense in many countries. For example, in the United Kingdom, bestiality has been illegal since 1824. In the United States, bestiality was made a felony in all 50 states in the 1990s.
Implications
Bestiality has numerous implications for humans and animals alike. From a psychological standpoint, engaging in bestiality can lead to feelings of guilt and shame. Additionally, it can have a negative impact on relationships with others.
From an animal welfare standpoint, bestiality can pose a serious risk to the animal involved. Animals may be subjected to physical and psychological abuse, and may suffer from physical or psychological injuries as a result. Additionally, the animal may be exposed to sexually transmitted diseases, which can have serious health consequences.
Current State
Bestiality is still practiced in some cultures and contexts. For example, in some rural areas of India, there is a tradition of men having sexual relations with cows. Additionally, some individuals engage in bestiality as part of their sexual fantasies.
However, bestiality is widely condemned and illegal in most countries. In the United States, it is a felony in all 50 states and is punishable by a fine or imprisonment.
Conclusion
Bestiality, also known as zooerasty and zoophilia, is an act of sexual activity between a human and an animal. It has been documented since ancient times, and has numerous implications for both humans and animals. In the modern era, bestiality is widely condemned and is illegal in most countries.
References
Aristophanes. (n.d.). In Wikipedia. Retrieved August 28, 2020, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aristophanes
Bartholomeusz, D. (2011). The history of bestiality. International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology, 55(4), 514-531.
Plutarch. (n.d.). In Wikipedia. Retrieved August 28, 2020, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plutarch
Rojas, J. (2001). Bestiality in India. Sexuality & Culture, 5(2), 3-17.
United States v. Stevens, 559 U.S. 460 (2010).
Williams, M. (2002). Bestiality in the Middle Ages. In A. Mericle (Ed.), The History of Human Sexuality (pp. 55-68). New York, NY: Routledge.