The understanding of sex from the Puritan perspective is frequently misinterpreted by scholars, who claim that it was not an essential part of their lives. Meanwhile, the situation was quite the opposite since these people emphasized its importance while distinguishing it from religious matters (Morgan, 1942). Therefore, it is critical to grasp the meaning of this aspect of human existence as it was actually perceived by this population group.
The writings of the time prove the presence of misconceptions concerning the attitudes of Puritans towards sex. First, according to Morgan (1942), they emphasized the significance of women for the wellbeing of men, which meant that sex was crucial. Hence, the tendency of seeing females as “creatures without which there is no comfortable living for man” confirms this stance (Morgan, 1942, p. 592). Second, sexual intercourse was not disregarded or prohibited because the regulations were only connected to the impossibility of meeting this need out of wedlock (Morgan, 1942). Hence, marriage was critical for this aspect, and it does not mean any restrictions in this respect. Third, the Puritans viewed sex “like other kinds of pleasure” and treated this part of life accordingly (Morgan, 1942, p. 594). In this way, it was normal but not connected to religion. Fourth, getting married was not always possible for servants when they did not receive their masters’ consent (Morgan, 1942). This fact contributes to the standpoint that sex for them was acceptable even when they were not in this kind of relationship.
To summarize, the misconceptions regarding sexual intercourse as per the Puritans’ views are caused by the lack of analysis of the matter. It shows that this part of life was vital in marriage and meant pleasure while its connection with religious affairs was avoided. Thus, it can be concluded that these people paid particular attention to sex as the key to human wellbeing, and they dealt with it in the way they perceived any other benefits of relationships.
Reference
Morgan, E. S. (1942). The Puritans and sex. The New England Quarterly, 15(4), 591-607. Web.