This article by Leanne Calvert challenges the historical perception of Presbyterians in 18th- and 19th-century Ulster as being solely defined by piety. Drawing from her book, "Pious and Promiscuous," Calvert examines the records of Presbyterian church courts (Kirk Sessions), which reveal a community surprisingly preoccupied with policing sexual behavior. The high volume of cases concerning fornication, adultery, and "scandalous carriage" does not, she argues, indicate simple promiscuity. Instead, it points to a complex sexual culture where intercourse was often an integral part of courtship rituals. The article highlights the practice of verba de futuro—a promise to marry sealed with sexual intercourse—suggesting that many couples did not view their pre-marital relations as sinful but as a confirmation of their commitment. These records provide a nuanced glimpse into the intimate lives of individuals, revealing a tension between strict church discipline and the community's own marital customs.
Piety and Passion: Uncovering the Intimate Lives of Ulster Presbyterians
A Surprising Reputation: Contrary to their image of "extreme morality," Presbyterian church records from 18th- and 19th-century Ulster show a significant focus on sexual misbehaviour, suggesting a vibrant and "colourful" sexual culture.
The Kirk Session Courts: The intimate lives of community members were closely regulated by the local church court, the Kirk Session, which disciplined a wide range of offenses, with sexual misconduct being the most common. In some parishes, sexual cases accounted for more than half of all hearings.
Broad Definition of Offenses: These courts prosecuted not only fornication (sex between unmarried people) and adultery but also "scandalous carriage"—intimate acts short of intercourse, such as kissing, heavy petting, or even being caught in compromising situations.
The Central Argument: The author argues that the high number of cases does not necessarily mean the community was promiscuous. Instead, sexual intercourse was often an accepted part of the rituals of courtship and marriage.
Sex as a Marriage Vow: Many couples engaged in a practice known as verba de futuro, where a formal promise to marry in the future was sealed and confirmed by having sex. Couples practicing this may not have considered their actions sinful because they fully intended to marry.
Key Takeaway: The historical records reveal a fascinating tension between piety and passion. Ulster Presbyterians valued marriage and followed strict church rules, but their customs also included intimate practices that were deeply intertwined with the process of forming a family.