From Library Journal
This book, whose contents were presented at a conference at the University of Pennsylvania in 1991, provides insight into social and political history not often examined by the historian. The reader is offered nine essays, an introduction, an extensive bibliography, and notes dealing with the source materials. The essays, which trace the evolution of pornography from 1500 to 1800--that is, from its infancy through the French Revolution--reinforce the thesis that pornography evolved as a political tool. The book is replete with drawings representing the originals found in the press of the period under discussion and supporting the narratives. The work is too specialized for general library collections but nonetheless serves a valuable service for scholars.
- Arthur K. Steinberg, Livingstone Coll., Salisbury, N.C.Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
Review
"Fascinating...a fiercely intelligent and provocative collection thatprovides new insights into both the origins of modern pornographyand the dynamics of cultural modernity." Michiko Kakutani , New York Times