Meaning: The quote you provided touches on the historical subjection of women and the role that the Church played in shaping societal attitudes towards women and their rights. To understand this quote fully, it is important to explore the historical context and the various factors that contributed to the subjugation of women, as well as the influence of the Church in perpetuating these attitudes.

Throughout history, women have been subject to various forms of subjugation, discrimination, and marginalization. These practices were often deeply rooted in societal norms, religious beliefs, and cultural traditions. The subjection of women was justified through various means, including the perpetuation of certain theoretical elements that were used to justify their inferior status.

The quote suggests that the subjection of women had theoretical underpinnings, implying that there were intellectual and ideological frameworks that supported and rationalized the unequal treatment of women. It also points to the Church as a significant contributor to these theoretical elements. This is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires a nuanced examination of historical, social, and religious factors.

The influence of the Church on the subjection of women can be traced back to its teachings, doctrines, and practices. Throughout history, many religious institutions, including the Christian Church, have been criticized for promoting and perpetuating patriarchal attitudes and for enforcing gender roles that restricted the rights and freedoms of women. The Church's teachings on gender, sexuality, and family dynamics played a crucial role in shaping societal attitudes and norms regarding women's place in society.

One of the key factors highlighted in the quote is the Church's hostile stance towards sexuality. Historically, the Church has been known for promoting a strict and conservative approach to sexuality, often framing it within the confines of marriage and procreation. This approach had significant implications for women, as it reinforced traditional gender roles and expectations, placing women in a subordinate position within the family and society at large.

The Church's teachings on female submission, obedience, and modesty were often used to justify the subjugation of women and to uphold male authority. These teachings were deeply ingrained in religious traditions and were reflected in various aspects of social and legal systems. As a result, women were systematically denied access to education, political participation, property rights, and other fundamental freedoms.

Furthermore, the Church's influence extended beyond its teachings and doctrines, as it also played a significant role in shaping laws, policies, and social norms. The Church's authority and moral influence often translated into tangible restrictions on women's rights and opportunities. This included limitations on women's employment, legal rights, and participation in public life.

It is important to note that the impact of the Church on the subjection of women was not uniform across different regions and historical periods. There were variations in the attitudes and practices of religious institutions, and the experiences of women were shaped by a complex interplay of cultural, economic, and political factors.

In conclusion, the quote highlights the historical and theoretical elements that contributed to the subjection of women, with a specific emphasis on the role of the Church in shaping societal attitudes towards women and their rights. By examining the Church's teachings, policies, and influence on social norms, we can gain a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics that have perpetuated the subjugation of women throughout history. This serves as a reminder of the importance of critically examining the intersections of religion, gender, and power in understanding the historical treatment of women.