The Construction of Homosexuality [Hardcover]

David F. Greenberg (Author)

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

This sociological history seeks to understand societal response to homosexuality. Part 1 is a primarily anthropological exploration of homosexuality from earliest history through feudalism; part 2 recounts the construction of a modern conception of homosexuality, including its emergence as an identifiable subculture, its medicalization, and the rise of the gay liberation movement. Some scholars may question Greenberg's emphasis on economic structures and class status, but this heavily researched work should be a vital building block in the growing field of gay studies. A final chapter details the problems of sociological research in this area. Index not seen. James E. Cook, Dayton & Montgomery Cty. P.L., Ohio
Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Product Description

"At various times, homosexuality has been considered the noblest of loves, a horrible sin, a psychological condition or grounds for torture and execution. David F. Greenberg's careful, encyclopedic and important new book argues that homosexuality is only deviant because society has constructed, or defined, it as deviant. The book takes us over vast terrains of example and detail in the history of homosexuality."--Nicholas B. Dirks, New York Times Book Review

Product Details

• Hardcover: 645 pages
• Publisher: University Of Chicago Press (December 9, 1988)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0226306275
• ISBN-13: 978-0226306278
• Product Dimensions: 9.6 x 7.1 x 1.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 3 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 2.5 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Bestsellers Rank: #2,238,178 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

11 of 19 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars very recommendable book, September 15, 2000

By	SEBASTIANVS "libra64" (TOKYO Japan) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Construction of Homosexuality (Paperback)

It is a very interesting and readable book. However, there're some incorrect quotes or sources. E.G. p.215 note 174, He cited one old (19 th century) book about Messalina. But as far as I know, her lesbianismus was not written in any classical texts. I couldn't find her same-sex passion either in Tacitus, Juvenalis, Suetonius or in Dion Cassios. The author himself should have read original Greek & Latin texts. Even I an ignorant Japanese did try to read them to find a written proof. And I hope some erudite persons will kindly teach me the authority of her sapphism.

0 of 15 people found the following review helpful:

1.0 out of 5 stars Be more specific, September 5, 2009

By	A Good "bueno dude" (LB, CA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Construction of Homosexuality (Paperback)

This book was very used and not in "good" condition. It had highlighted paragraphs and the cover was worn. I previously ordered this book listed as good and it was slightly used no highlights and not worn. I thought I would get the same book the same way again but I was disappointed. Next time I'll order from another vendor.