They Stoop to Conquer: A Brief History of Oral Sex

The idea that “everyone is doing it” may hold true of traditional sex, and is probably the reason why it has been so well studied, documented, discussed, and debated. Yet, over the past 4000 years oral sex has had a much more controversial status; banned in some cultures, encouraged in others, a death sentence in some nations, and a religious practice in still more. This book represents the first major attempt by a historian to study both the history of oral sex itself as well as its impact on select events in world history. The ancient Greeks and Romans considered it degrading to both parties yet depicted it prolifically in art and literature. The Early Christian Church called it "the worst evil," punishable by seven years of penance and fasting (murder was one year). Nearly all of the 13 original American colonies had laws against it--except Georgia. A Victorian handbook for young brides advised how to "dampen his desire to kiss in forbidden territory." Attitudes about oral sex have varied through the centuries and across cultures--a death sentence in some nations, a religious practice in others. This book explores its history as well as its impact on world events.