The mythology of sex : [an illustrated exploration of sexual customs and practices from ancient times to the present] : Dening, Sarah : Free Download, Borrow, and Streaming : Internet Archive (original) (raw)

224 pages : 25 cm

"The Mythology of Sex explores the ways in which cultural myths reflect attitudes toward sexuality and how these attitudes have changed over time. Drawing on the lore and history of ancient civilizations, recent empires, secret societies, and religions old and new, this handsome guide provides a fascinating approach to understanding the origins of our behaviors, our ideas about the world, and our sexual selves." "You'll learn the origins of the virgin/whore dichotomy; find out what the Kama Sutra is really all about; discover the original sexual significance of many of today's traditions (including those surrounding Saint Valentine's Day, Christmas, and Easter); and even take a glimpse into a secret society whose initiation ceremony involved the kissing of animals."--Jacket

Includes index

"A Labyrinth book"--Title page verso

Subtitle from jacket

1. Introduction -- Sex and the Myths of Creation -- 2. Tribal Societies and Rites of Passage -- 3. Sex in Ancient Civilizations -- 4. The Art of Love -- 5. Religion and Taboo -- 6. The Scientific Breakthrough -- 7. The Twentieth Century and its Attitude -- 8. What Lies Ahead?