The Roman Doctrine of Ius Primae Noctis and the 18th-Century

question 58

Multiple Choice

The Roman doctrine of ius primae noctis and the 18th-century French doctrine of the droit du seigneur gave similar rights to the male head of the family. What rights did these doctrines confer?

• A) rights regarding the killing of any child in his household
• B) rights regarding sexual access to members of his household
• C) rights regarding the transfer of property within the household
• D) rights regarding the punishment of members of his household

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Definitions:

Reality Principle

A psychoanalytic concept that refers to the ability of the mind to assess the external world and act upon it accordingly, rather than purely on the basis of the pleasure principle.

Instinctual Needs

Fundamental, innate drives or motivations necessary for survival, such as hunger or reproduction.

Pleasure Principle

The driving force of the id that seeks immediate gratification of all desires, wants, and needs.

Forbidden Impulse

Refers to an unconscious desire or thought that is deemed unacceptable or taboo by societal standards, often suppressed or repressed.