2025/10/10 by Sternath, Vanessa-Nadine, Mecklenburg, Michael
Arts and Humanities · Computer Science · #Historical, Literary, and Cultural Studies #German Literature and Culture Studies #Psychiatry, Mental Health, Neuroscience
paper · doi:10.17885/heiup.mial.2025.2.25262
This article examines the representation of sexual empowerment and sexualised violence in the medieval Märendichtungen ‘Nonnenturnier’ and ‘Rosendorn,’ exploring their role as constructs that critique gender norms, sexuality, and social dynamics. In ‘Nonnenturnier,’ the speaking penis embodies aggressive male sexuality, leading the protagonist to sever ties with it to distance himself from its disruptive nature. This separation critiques male sexual behaviour as inherently destructive and isolating. Conversely, ‘Rosendorn’ depicts a speaking vulva that embodies exaggerated notions of female desire, reflecting patriarchal fantasies. The conflict between the woman and her vulva exposes internalised societal negativity towards female sexuality. However, the narrative resolution, involving a violent and coercive reunion, problematically normalises sexual violence. Both texts investigate the fragmentation of sexual identity, suggesting the impossibility of separating sexuality from the body. While ‘Nonnenturnier’ uses absurdity to critique male aggression, ‘Rosendorn’ reveals a more troubling reinforcement of patriarchal power dynamics under the guise of reconciliation.