Anthologica Rarissima: The Way of a Virgin / Being excerpts from rare, curious and diverting books

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

52059

Title

Anthologica Rarissima: The Way of a Virgin / Being excerpts from rare, curious and diverting books

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Anthologica Rarissima: The Way of a Virgin compiles rare, curious, and diverting excerpts from obscure European and Oriental literature regarding folklore, sexuality, and virginity. Edited by L. and C. Brovan, this privately printed anthology presents unexpurgated texts from authors like Casanova, Boccaccio, and Burton, enriched by extensive bibliographical notes and slang definitions for the student of psychology and literature.

Summary up to 500 words

Edited by L. and C. Brovan for the privately circulated Anthologica Rarissima, this volume assembles excerpts from rare, often erotic works concerning virginity, folklore, and sexuality. The collection opens with a foreword explaining the society's mission to publish 'privately printed' books that were ignored by the public but privately applauded. These texts are described as containing life-like material that has stood the test of time, despite being relegated to the category of improper or privately printed literature due to their frank nature. A significant portion of the text is dedicated to Giacomo Casanova's adventures in Geneva with his cousins, Hedvige and Helène. The narrative details their frank discussions on theology, anatomy, and sexual mechanics within a garden setting. This philosophical converse evolves into intimate encounters in a summer-house, where Casanova explains biological realities to the maidens and shares pleasure with them. The story highlights how nature forces appeasement of desire and contrasts theoretical knowledge with practical experience. The narrative shifts from personal anecdote to an ethnographic survey of global customs regarding female chastity. Citing authorities such as Havelock Ellis and Westermarck, the text argues that the high value placed on virginity often stems from economic views of women as property or male jealousy rather than moral necessity. The book details bizarre historical practices, including priests deflowering brides in various cultures like Brazil, Madagascar, and Senegambia, and the use of 'Girdles of Chastity' to control wives. Extensive footnotes define slang terms for genitalia across English, French, and Latin, referencing works like Les Cent Nouvelles Nouvelles and Kruptadia. The collection juxtaposes classical myths with crude realities, presenting a comprehensive library of 'unsoiled goods' literature. It explores the idea that virginity spells ignorance and obstacles, whereas maturity brings understanding and cooperation. Ultimately, the volume presents a controversial yet scholarly examination of how societies have historically guarded female purity while often neglecting the chastity of wives, offering a unique collection for students, collectors, and psychologists interested in the less-known folk-lore and literature of Europe and the Orient.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Erotic Fiction
• Sex Customs