ABSTRACT
This chapter offers a discussion of historical variance of perspectives on four topics: (1) sexual imagery, (2) the sale of sex, (3) same-sex sexual behavior, and (4) sexual pleasure. Starting with early humans, the evolution of sexual deviance is highlighted through ancient civilizations in Egypt, China, India, Greece, and Italy up to Western cultures in the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, and the Victorian Era. Modern-day perspectives about sexual deviance are also provided in a cultural context. From Paleolithic cave art, to chastity belts, to the World Wide Web, historical examples illustrate the complexity behind contemporary perspectives about sex. Overall, this chapter offers an in-depth exploration of aspects about sexuality that have been considered both normal and deviant throughout history. By using a lens that is both historically and culturally sensitive, the evolution of sexual deviance is illuminated.
