Comparative Views on Sexuality in Walden Two and Medallion

The portrayal of sexuality within fictional communities provides a lens through which societal norms and deviations can be explored. Both B.F. Skinner’s "Walden Two" and Toni Morrison’s "Medallion" present distinct approaches to sex, steeped in traditional perspectives that underpin monogamy and community values. Yet, beyond this shared foundation, the narratives diverge significantly in their treatment of sexual openness, purpose, and societal roles. This essay examines how each community interprets and integrates sexuality into its social fabric, highlighting a dichotomy between Walden Two’s utilitarian approach and Medallion’s reinforcement of conventional gender roles.

Sexuality as Control in Walden Two

In "Walden Two," sex is openly discussed and primarily seen as a mechanism for population growth. Skinner’s community views procreation as the central aim of sexual activity, which is encouraged during adolescent years to reduce generation intervals. By advocating for early marriages and childbearing, the community bypasses traditional Western norms that often discourage teenage parenthood. This liberal stance is encapsulated in Skinner’s assertion that the average age for a mother is eighteen, with aspirations to lower it further (Skinner, 119). Such policies reflect a broader strategy of behavioral engineering, designed to sustain the community’s population and ethos.

However, this openness is not without its constraints. Despite the candid discussions around sex, it remains tethered to marriage, stripping it of recreational or pleasure-seeking connotations. Frasier, a character in the novel, suggests that by normalizing sex and removing its taboos, promiscuity may be curbed, as youth would not find sexual activity inherently thrilling or rebellious. The societal expectation is that post-childbearing, couples lead largely sexless lives, with separate living arrangements fostering productivity in other areas such as work and art. This model diverts sexual energy into communal betterment, illustrating a distinct utilitarian approach to sexuality.

Gender Roles and Equality in Walden Two

Walden Two’s approach to sexuality also challenges traditional gender roles by promoting equality between the sexes. Once women have fulfilled their reproductive roles, they are encouraged to participate equally in the community’s affairs, devoid of gender-based distinctions. Frasier emphasizes that relationships between men and women are devoid of seduction expectations, allowing friendships to flourish without societal pressures. This structure aims to dismantle the stereotypical roles of “seducer” and “seduced,” fostering an environment where gender equality is not just preached but practiced.

Sexuality in Medallion: Tradition and Restriction

In contrast, Morrison’s "Medallion" presents a community where sexuality is closely guarded by traditional norms, particularly for women. Here, the act of sex within marriage is crucial for sustaining marital bonds and reinforcing gender roles. The narrative reveals strong societal standards where women are expected to maintain sexual propriety, as seen in the anticipation of Nel and Jude’s wedding night, which underscores the community’s stance against premarital sex.

In Medallion, women's value is often measured by their adherence to these norms, with deviations harshly judged. Characters like Sula challenge these conventions by embracing sexual freedom, yet face ostracism as a result. Morrison illustrates how Medallion’s rigid views perpetuate heteronormative gender expectations, contrasting sharply with Walden Two’s more egalitarian approach.

Handling Deviance: A Comparative Perspective

Both communities also differ in their handling of sexual deviance. Walden Two employs “counter-education” and psychological interventions to address behaviors that stray from its norms, focusing on reintegration rather than punishment. Conversely, in Medallion, deviations from sexual propriety lead to social exclusion and scorn, as exemplified by Sula’s pariah status. This punitive approach reinforces Medallion’s stringent sexual mores, preserving its traditional fabric.

Conclusion

In comparing "Walden Two" and "Medallion," it becomes evident that while both communities are rooted in traditional sexual norms, their execution and implications diverge significantly. Walden Two adopts an open yet controlled approach to sexuality, using it as a tool for societal engineering and gender equality. Meanwhile, Medallion clings to its restrictive and punitive traditions, emphasizing sexual propriety as a means of maintaining social order and gender roles. These contrasting narratives offer profound insights into the complexities of sexuality within communal settings, reflecting broader societal debates on the balance between tradition and progress.

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