Homosexual Law Changes (Press, 12 December 1985)

In a letter dated November 16, 1985, Paul Maling responds to Vernon Wilkinson's assertions regarding the ancient Greeks' views on homosexuality, particularly male homosexual anal coitus. Maling argues that such practices were seen as essential for a strong and noble society, citing Aristophanes in the "Symposium" where he claims that only those who experienced a man's love in their youth played their roles effectively in the state. Contrary to Wilkinson's claims, Maling asserts that the practice was not limited to boys before puberty, as it was legally prohibited until the age of 13 for free-born boys to engage with adults. He clarifies that the Greeks deemed the ideal age for the beloved to be between 15 and 19. Furthermore, Maling remarks that among the Ionians, the practice of homosexuality extended into older age, referencing Socrates as an example. He also challenges Wilkinson's statement about the Romans, arguing that it is incorrect to assert that the Romans were typically uninterested in homosexual acts. Maling points out that Julius Caesar was reportedly involved with Nicomedes when he was just 20 years old, and suggests that many early Roman Emperors frequently engaged in homosexual intercourse, indicating that such relationships were widespread in Roman society. The letter was published during a journalists' strike, and the editor notes that no further correspondence regarding this historical aspect of homosexuality will be entertained.

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