Routledge Lesbian Dames: Sapphism in Long Eighteenth Century Literature

Lesbian Dames explores how romantic and erotic relationships between women were represented in eighteenth-century literature and culture. This Routledge collection examines Sapphism across multiple contemporary discourses including politics, pornography, economics and art. Drawing on more than a generation of lesbian-gay scholarship, the book offers new perspectives on same-sex desire, gender identities, practices and cultural transgressions. Contributors include established writers, critics and historians who bring fresh analytical approaches to understanding women's relationships and sexuality during this pivotal historical period. The volume provides essential reading for students and scholars of gender studies, literary history, sexuality studies and cultural analysis, combining rigorous academic work with accessible exploration of how desire between women was constructed, represented and understood in eighteenth-century society.