Seduction or rape? power dynamics between citizen and slave sex

Abstract

Homosexual relationships in Classical Athens are often spoken about within the parameters of pederasty, which is connected in many ways to elites educating younger elites. Relationships of this kind have incurred scrutiny from scholars concerning gender and power relationships within differing age groups and the possible loss of social status amongst younger and older participants. This paper will take interest in the relationships with the greatest power dynamic: those of master and slave. The existence of power imbalance in sexual relations creates perfect conditions for situations of abuse, which then often occurs.