Classic 17th Century Erotic Literature
The School of Venus: or; The Ladies Delight, Reduced into Rules of Practice stands as a significant work of historical erotica from the mid-17th century. This dialogue-based narrative presents an intimate exploration of sexual knowledge through the conversations between naive Katherine (Katy) and her experienced cousin Frances (Frank).
Two Dialogues of Sexual Enlightenment
Presented in two dialogues, The School of Venus recounts the sexual enlightenment of our naive protagonist Katherine (Katy) under the sagely tutelage of older cousin and kinswoman Frances (Frank). The older takes great pleasure in sharing all those lascivious deeds and desires men and women are naturally predisposed to practising. Frank goes on to explain the mechanics of erections, teaches the vocabulary used to refer to erotic anatomy, and describes the standard course of a sexual coupling. When Roger drops by for a visit, Katy is keen to put into practice all of what she has learned.
In our second dialogue Katy tells Frank of what she and Roger got up, sparing no licentious detail in recounting the various poses, positions (front and back), and acts the two partook in. Frank then continues to educate Katy in other elements of physical intimacy such as the use of warm-milk-filled godemiches to how to use ones hands.
Historical Significance and Publication History
Originally published in 1655 as L'Escole des Filles ou la Philosophie des dames by Michel Millot, this work was anonymously translated into English in 1680. The text offers an eye-opening example of sexual practices and attitudes in the mid-17th century, making it valuable both as erotica and as a historical document.
The controversial nature of The School of Venus is evident in its suppression history. So notorious was this work that Samuel Pepys famously burned his copy after reading it, documenting the act in his diary. This classic of once-suppressed literature makes a rare fine addition to any collection of the graphic and historically significant.
This Edition
The cover of this e-edition is from the frontispiece to the original 1680 English translation, preserving the authentic visual heritage of this remarkable text.
