Audiobook Sample
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- Title: Sex: Avoided Subjects Discussed In Plain English
- Author: Henry Stanton
- Narrator: Phil Chenevert
- Length: 01:46:00
- Version: Abridged
- Release Date: 01/01/2011
- Publisher: LibriVox
- Genre: Health & Wellness, Intimacy & Sex
- ISBN13: SABLIBX978068
Henry Stanton’s *Sex: Avoided Subjects Discussed In Plain English*, narrated by Phil Chenevert, offers a fascinating glimpse into the early 20th-century discourse on sexuality. As a literature professor with a keen interest in cultural narratives and gender representation, I found this audiobook to be a compelling historical artifact that reveals much about the societal norms of its time. The book, originally published in 1922, aims to demystify human sexual behavior and relationships, blending scientific knowledge with moralistic guidance. While the content is undeniably dated, it provides valuable insights into the evolving attitudes towards sex and marriage during a period of significant social transition.
Listening to this audiobook reminded me of my time as a visiting professor in Tokyo, where I explored how cultural contexts shape narrative perceptions. Just as Haruki Murakami’s *Kafka on the Shore* felt different in Japanese and English, Stanton’s work resonates differently when experienced through the medium of audiobooks. Phil Chenevert’s narration is both clear and engaging, making the text accessible to modern listeners despite its antiquated language and views. His tone strikes a balance between academic authority and conversational ease, which is crucial for a book that aims to educate while maintaining a certain level of decorum.
Stanton’s book is structured around several key themes: sex education, marriage and family, moral guidance, hygiene and health, and eugenics. While the emphasis on traditional family structures and moral restraint may seem outdated today, these themes were revolutionary for their time. The book’s frank discussion of sexual hygiene, for instance, was a significant departure from the Victorian era’s reticence on such matters. However, the inclusion of eugenic ideas, which were widely accepted in the early 20th century, is a stark reminder of the period’s pervasive biases and discriminatory practices.
From a literary perspective, Stanton’s work is a product of its time, reflecting the conservative and moralistic attitudes that dominated early 20th-century discourse. Comparing it to other works from the same era, such as Marie Stopes’ *Married Love* and Havelock Ellis’ *Studies in the Psychology of Sex*, it becomes clear that Stanton’s approach was more conservative. While Stopes and Ellis advocated for greater sexual freedom and understanding, Stanton emphasized traditional values and moral restraint. This contrast highlights the diversity of perspectives that existed even within the same historical period.
Despite its limitations, *Sex: Avoided Subjects Discussed In Plain English* is a valuable resource for understanding the history of sexual education and the societal attitudes that shaped it. The audiobook format, with its emphasis on oral storytelling, adds a layer of intimacy to the experience, making it easier to engage with the material on a personal level. For listeners interested in the historical context of sexual discourse, this audiobook offers a unique opportunity to explore the origins of modern sex education.
In conclusion, Henry Stanton’s *Sex: Avoided Subjects Discussed In Plain English*, narrated by Phil Chenevert, is a thought-provoking listen that provides valuable insights into the early 20th-century understanding of sexuality. While some of its views may be outdated, the book’s historical significance and educational value make it a worthwhile addition to any audiobook collection. Whether you’re a history buff, a literature enthusiast, or simply curious about the evolution of sexual discourse, this audiobook offers a unique and enlightening experience.
With literary appreciation,
Prof. Emily Chen
