Cultural Encounters and Homoeroticism in Sri Lanka

This book explores the rich history of gay visitors to Sri Lanka, highlighting cultural exchanges and significant figures in the realm of homoeroticism.

Ceylon, or Sri Lanka, has long captivated travelers with its lush landscapes, vibrant temples, and welcoming locals. Known historically as Serendip, this island nation has a rich tapestry of cultural and social history. Cultural Encounters and Homoeroticism in Sri Lanka delves into the experiences of gay visitors from the late 1800s to contemporary times, offering a unique perspective on the intersection of homosexuality, travel, and cultural exchange on the island.

The book presents profiles of significant figures in Sri Lankan culture, as well as notable homosexual visitors, both celebrated and controversial. It highlights the journeys of individuals such as Victorian reformer Edward Carpenter, naturalist Ernst Haeckel, and writers like Paul Bowles and Arthur C. Clarke. The contributions of Australian painter Donald Friend and modernist photographer Lionel Wendt are also examined, showcasing how their erotic appreciation for young men intertwined with their fascination for Sinhalese art, spirituality, and the natural beauty of Sri Lanka. These encounters left a lasting impact on modern art, literature, and dance.

Offering an original analysis of gay cultures in Sri Lanka from Victorian times to the present, Cultural Encounters and Homoeroticism in Sri Lanka is the first comprehensive study of the island as a destination for gay travel. This insightful exploration of transnational cultural exchange and sexuality will appeal to scholars in Asian Studies, Colonial History, and Gay and Queer Studies.