Persian gay

Abstract:

Descriptions of Ancient Persian male homoeroticism appear mainly from Classical sources, which, however, seem to show divergent testimonies regarding this practice. Some authors apparently provide proof for its widespread acceptance, whereas others, particularly later authors, emphasized its prohibition. Considering the many difficulties emotionally attached in the reconstruction of Persian history through the eyes of classical Greeks and Romans, this article aims to provide a short overview of the subject, with some clues to the question of the origin, form, and tolerance of queer love in Achaemenid Persia. We consent that homoerotic practices were attested and likely accepted at some level in Achaemenid Persia. However, we believe that the evidence ready to us is not enough to obtain a complete understanding of this phenomenon. It is also stressed that not every Greek or Roman reference to Persian male homoeroticism should be taken at tackle value, as some are distorted and fictitious or l