Promiscuity in Western Literature

Promiscuity in Western Literature capitalises on the fact that literature gives us deep and varied resources for reflecting on this controversial aspect of human behaviour. Drawing on authors from Homer to Margaret Atwood, it shows how the idea of promiscuity has been a source of anxiety and fantasy, and a means of control.

Peter Stoneley has taught at the Universities of Oxford, Texas, and Queen's Belfast. He is currently Professor of English and Head of Department at the University of Reading, U.K. His previous books have been on US literature and culture, and on dance.

Introduction Chapter One: Animals Chapter Two: The Excessive Woman Chapter Three: Sex Objects and Comic Objects Chapter Four: Libertine Ethics Chapter Five: The "Swarming City" Conclusion: Used Up