THE DANGEROUS SEX; The Myth of Feminine Evil

by H. R. Hays ‧ RELEASE DATE: Sept. 29, 1964

The author of From Ape to Angel employs a readable, reasonable conversational one to discuss a pathological fear of women and sex on the part of men-dating from antiquity and still blatantly evident in primitive societies while deeply entrenched in the conduct of Western Civilization. It's a glimpse through Freudian lenses at the documents of anthropology, sociology and, most especially, world literature. ""The thread that runs so true"" is an extreme fear of castration during the sex act by , all devouring vulva, based in early in early childhood fears of the primal scene. The author points out that it is the typical ""shaman"" among primitives who direct the anti-women practices. He then goes on the analyze the landmarks of western literature from medieval times through the 19th century to prove that the influential poets, novelists and playwrights ""acted out"" their private horrors of the ""cannibalistic womb"" by writing it down. Our national preoccupation with bosom beauty is labeled unichoid"" and the number of men seeking refuge in homosexuality is seen as part of the price society is paying for occupational, social and political equality between the sexes. The rather anti-climactic conclusion calls for a reassessment of ""the typical manly role"" in a world where brute strength is no longer the deciding factor work situations.

Pub Date: Sept. 29, 1964

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Putnam

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Sept. 1, 1964

Categories: NONFICTION