Dear medievists,
There is no such thing as studying the 16th century to realize the
continuous influence of the Middle Ages, especially in the field of
religion. I am currently studying the sense of smell in the 16th century
and came accross texts which seem to imply that smell was the least
censored or moralised of all the five senses. Furthermore, although sins
can be commited through smell, it seems to have been the only sense
through which one could not reach the state of mortal sin.
I wonder if someone could indicate me one or several texts where I could
find clear confirmation or refutation of these views.
With many thanks in advance.
Francois Quiviger.
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