Description

The Encyclopedia of Erotic Literature is a two-volume work that contains some 540 entries on erotic literature on an international scale. The Encyclopedia has an unprecedented scope, the first scholarly reference resource to bring the field together in all its fascinating variety. The entries examine the history of the literature in different countries and languages from classical antiquity to the present day, individual writers from around the world (not all of them necessarily known as specialist writers of erotic literature), significant works, genres and critical approaches, and general themes pertinent to erotic literature (nudity, prostitution, etc.). The definition of erotic literature is broad, encompassing all the material recognized in the study of the field: not just fiction in all genres (novels, poetry, short stories, drama), but also essays, autobiographies, treatises and sex manuals from different cultures. This Encyclopedia deals with sexually explicit texts characterized by sexual representations and suggestions. All types of sexuality are included.How to Use This BookThe Encyclopedia of Erotic Literature is composed of over 500 signed scholarly essays of 1000 to 8000 words in length. Researchers will find the encyclopedia’s A to Z format easily navigable. Scholars seeking multiple entries within a specific area of inquiry will find the thematic table of contents of great value. There one can browse all of the entries concerning authors and works employing a specific language (i.e. Indian languages), historical overviews of specific nations, regions and periods (i.e. German: twentieth and twenty-first centuries), literary surveys of specific genres and trends (i.e. science fiction and fantasy) and entries exploring discrete concepts (i.e. prostitution) grouped as topics and themes. Nearly all of the entries concerning individual works or an entire body of work will be followed by a capsule biography of the author. Major articles contain a list of References and Further Reading, including sources used by the writer and editor as well as additional items that may be of interest to the reader. And a thorough, analytical index will instantly open the work up to every reader.Hardcover: 1616 pagesPublisher: Routledge; 1 edition (September 11, 2006)Language: EnglishISBN-10: 1579584411ISBN-13: 978-1579584412ASIN: B00HDE4L0Q