ABSTRACT
This chapter shows that the play of men with men and the play of women with women arise as further expression and support of the play between the sexes. There is a battle of sexes—a play of sexes—to the degree sexes divides the life of the species. Mate choices by males and by females are key elements in the play of sex in social life. The distinctive character of women’s contests for men reflects the particular game nature asks her to play. There are parallels as well between female play and female sexuality. Girls and women play in and at relationships. Women’s sexuality reflects her play as nurturer and receptive judge of male initiative. The story of the human battle of the sexes is thus the story of human sex roles. It is a story of biology and a story of culture.
