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Jessica Valenti's Theory Of Virginity

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The term “virginity” is rooted in creating patriarchy. The concept of virginities is traced backed to Mariology, the Roman Catholic worship of the Virgin Mary. Mariology gained popularity during the 14th century. This concept of purity took full force in society during the middle ages. Mary decided if you were holy and earthly or if women were the source of evil.
Queen Elizabeth I is an example. She ruled England between 1588 and 1632. She was a very influential women during the time Mariology took over. She had to uphold intense societal standards. The kingdom obsessed over her virginity and her love life. She claimed herself as the virgin but she had a few “boy toys” here and there. Since she was 34 and childless she was a slut to her kingdom because she was not a good queen. “Sex without progeny was unacceptable, as it was a Queen’s role to maintain the patriarchy and anything outside that labor was considered frivolous wantonness”.
B) The concept of virginity was made to control and exploit women. “within this system, women’s bodies were (and are) presented as products for …show more content…

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