The Libertine Reader: Eroticism and Enlightenment in Eighteenth-Century France

Rating:
Summary: A beautiful glimpse into the boudoir!
Review: Never before has such an impressive selection of 18th century French libertine literature been assembled in English translation. The reader surveys the entire genre of this "philosophical," sometimes very erotic literature (from Denis Diderot and Crebillon fils to the divine Marquis de Sade). To my knowledge, at least two of the pieces have never been translated: Choderlos de Laclos' "On the Education of Women" and Vivant Denon's "No Tomorrow." Denon's piece is a particular treat and is perhaps the crown jewel of the collection. Of course, substantive essays by noted dix-huitiemistes are also included before each piece. For those who love the 18th century or merely are afficiandos of erotic literature, "The Libertine Reader" should definitely be on your bookshelves.

Rating:
Summary: A beautiful glimpse into the boudoir!
Review: Never before has such an impressive selection of 18th century French libertine literature been assembled in English translation. The reader surveys the entire genre of this "philosophical," sometimes very erotic literature (from Denis Diderot and Crebillon fils to the divine Marquis de Sade). To my knowledge, at least two of the pieces have never been translated: Choderlos de Laclos' "On the Education of Women" and Vivant Denon's "No Tomorrow." Denon's piece is a particular treat and is perhaps the crown jewel of the collection. Of course, substantive essays by noted dix-huitiemistes are also included before each piece. For those who love the 18th century or merely are afficiandos of erotic literature, "The Libertine Reader" should definitely be on your bookshelves.