On Tue, 21 May 1996, Frederik Pedersen wrote:
. Gratian mentions the "Commixtio Sexuum" (mingling of
> the sexes), which has traditionally
> been taken to mean (carnal) consummation. However, it equally possible to
> suggest that this ambiguous phrase
> should be taken to mean "an undivided life together" which both removes
> the focus from the act of intercourse
> and makes it possible to argue that the marriage of Mary and Joseph was
> perfect.
I don't know if this is helpful, but in the early fourteenth century
inquisition registers one finds "commixitio" used to indicate sexual
congress; it is not the only word for it, and it varies from place to
place; and it is, of course, how the scribes render into latin the
vernacular interview ... nevertheless, it definitely means "sex" and not
anything more spiritual!
i can get refs if you want 'em, but not right now ...
cheers
john arnold
centre for medieval studies, york, england
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