The Fires of Lust

"A lively and readable account rooted in a deep knowledge of the scholarly literature on sexuality in medieval western Europe. Harvey's specialism in the history of medicine provides particular depth, and is integrated with legal and cultural material to create a sparkling and convincing whole." -- Ruth Mazo Karras, Trinity College Dublin "Masterful. There is no better guide to what occurs betwixt the sheets of the medieval bedroom than Harvey. The Fires of Lust-an absolute triumph." -- Kate Lister, author of "A Curious History of Sex and Harlots, Whores & Hackabouts" "With unabashed directness, a delicate touch of wit, and constant humanity, Harvey surveys the world of medieval sex and sexuality. Throughout The Fires of Lust she situates the twin themes of morality and medicine in the social and material world that medieval people inhabited. What those people thought, felt, feared, and hoped for all play a part, alongside the pronouncements of theologians, lawmakers, and intellectuals. Here, in its messy complexity, is medieval life-life laid bare, but always with respect and care. A triumph." -- John H. Arnold, Professor of Medieval History, University of Cambridge, author of "Belief and Unbelief in the Middle Ages" "Learned, fun, and full of surprises-a fascinating, wide-ranging guide to medieval sexual attitudes and experiences." -- Fara Dabhoiwala, author of "The Origins of Sex: A History of the First Sexual Revolution"