Czystość i wierność – konstruowanie kobiecej seksualności u Romów

This article concentrates on the issue of the female sexuality. It presents the expectations towards Roma women and the role of virginity. Good reputation and virgin¬ity are girls’ main capital, therefore various steps are taken towards guaranteeing it. It is important, as the behavior of a girl and of a married woman influences as well the honor of her parents, grandparents, husband and other family members. Roma expect wives to be fully faithful to her husband whereas women cannot anticipate this. At the same time, women suffer the consequences of their unfaithfulness, as it is thought to be a threat not only to the family but also to the whole group. To clearly present the existence of double standards, expectations towards men, and consequences of their wrong behavior are also presented.