Sexuality

Theories of sexuality and desire are commonly used in literary and cultural studies. In this illuminating study Joseph Bristow introduces readers to the fundamental critical debates surrounding the topic.

This fully updated second edition includes:


a historical account of sexuality from the Victorians to the present
discussions of the most influential theorists including Freud, Lacan, Bataille, Baudrillard, Cixous, Deleuze, Irigaray and Kristeva
a new and extended discussion of queer and transgender theory, race, ethnicity and desire
a new preface summarising changes in the field since the first edition
a new glossary, annotated further reading section and bibliography.


Considering all of the major movements in the field, this new edition is the ideal guide for students of literary and cultural studies.

Joseph Bristow is Professor of English at the University of California, Los Angeles. His recent books include Oscar Wilde and Modern Culture: The Making of a Legend (2008) and The Wilde Archive: Traditions, Histories, Resources (2011). He is an editor of the Journal of Victorian Culture (Routledge).

Preface to Second Edition Preface and Acknowledgements to the First Edition Introduction 1. Sexological Types Sexual Classifications Feminist Contentions Consuming Passions 2. Psychoanalytical Drives Freud’s Complexes Lacan’s Orders Feminist Interventions 3. Libidinal Economies (De)generating Pleasures Pornographic Materials 4. Discursive Desires Foucault’s Bodies Foucault’s Exclusions Foucault’s Followers 5. Diverse Eroticisms Queer (Non)Identities Global Sexualities Glossary Further Reading Bibliography Index Further Reading Works Cited