The worm in the bud : the world of Victorian sexuality

In this fascinating study Ronald Pearsall exposes with surprisingly thorough documentation, the plain facts of sex-life (approved and illicit) among the aritocracy, the middle class and poor in the nineteenth century.

His curious record of glaring conflict notibly helps to explain many features of the Victorian make-up.

This study illustrates the conflicting values of the Victorian double standard-one is the very image of respectability, the other is represented by an undergrowth in which repressions sought their outlet in depravity and licentiousness.

The book gives accounts of sexuality in Victoria's Britain which include, Ruskin and his unconsummated marriage, Swinburne and his predilection for flagellation, the cult of the corset, the flourishing trade in pornography and obscene photographs and orgies that took place under cover at sedate country houses.