Click the picture for the description During the Heian era, Japan was very liberal in sexual terms. Marriage was distinguished from love and sex practised to fulfil personal needs, no guilt or moralising attending erotic pleasures. Gradually, attitudes changed, and while polygamy was still permitted, it was practically possible only for the most wealthy Samurai. Men and women used their own languages, and their behaviour in all situations was governed by clear rules of etiquette. Homosexual relations between male warriors were not forbidden by Samurai rules. On the contrary, they were considered desirable as women were in principle unable to understand the higher spirit of a Samurai. Women were required only to produce children. Too many affairs with women were sometimes even considered dangerous to one's health.
 
 
8. Notion of Gender
 

 

 
     
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