Cultural Encyclopedia of the Breast
Edited by Merril D. Smith
Publication date:
08 September 2014Length of book:
300 pagesPublisher
Rowman & Littlefield PublishersISBN-13: 9780759123311
Boobs. Tits. Hooters. Knockers. Jugs. Breasts. We celebrate them; we revile them. They nourish us; they kill us. And regardless of what we call them, breasts have fascinated us since prehistoric times. This A-to-Z encyclopedia explores the historical magnitude and cultural significance of the breast over time and around the world.
A team of international scholars from various disciplines provides key insights and information about the breast in art, history, fashion, social movements, medicine, sexuality, and more. Entries discuss depictions of breasts on ancient figurines, in Renaissance paintings, and in present-day advertisements. They examine how fashion has emphasized or de-emphasized the breast at various times. They tackle medical issues—such as breast augmentation and breast cancer—and controversies over breastfeeding. The breast as sexual object and even a site of smuggling are also covered. As a whole, the Cultural Encyclopedia of the Breast takes an engaging and accessible look at this notable body part.
A team of international scholars from various disciplines provides key insights and information about the breast in art, history, fashion, social movements, medicine, sexuality, and more. Entries discuss depictions of breasts on ancient figurines, in Renaissance paintings, and in present-day advertisements. They examine how fashion has emphasized or de-emphasized the breast at various times. They tackle medical issues—such as breast augmentation and breast cancer—and controversies over breastfeeding. The breast as sexual object and even a site of smuggling are also covered. As a whole, the Cultural Encyclopedia of the Breast takes an engaging and accessible look at this notable body part.
Independent scholar Smith has edited the work of 44 contributors . . . on the topic of breasts. The 141 signed essays range in length from one to three pages each; most are U.S. centric. Entries such as 'Breast Milk,' 'Eating Disorders,' 'Maidenform,' 'Mammograms' and 'Public Art' explore 'the cultural aspect of this body part and cultural obsession' from 'prehistory to the present' and include suggestions for further reading. While scholarly volumes exist on breast feeding, breast cancer, and the history of the breast, the publisher is correct in asserting this title as being the first related cultural encyclopedia. VERDICT A useful reference source for academic and public library collections, especially those supporting interest or study in women’s, gender, and sexuality studies; social sciences; and history.