Sex, Identity and Hermaphrodites in Iberia, 1500–1800

Delve into the fascinating world of gender identity with Sex, Identity and Hermaphrodites in Iberia, 1500–1800 by Richard Cleminson. Published by Taylor & Francis Ltd in 2013, this insightful hardback explores the intricate evolution of gender perceptions during the early modern period in Europe. Spanning 224 pages, the book examines how the longstanding belief in a singular 'one-sex' model was challenged in the seventeenth century, leading to a reevaluation of hermaphroditism from a medieval superstition to a complex social issue. Cleminson offers a comparative analysis of these changing attitudes in Iberia alongside the shifts witnessed in northern Europe, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of the intersection between gender identity and cultural beliefs. This scholarly work is essential for anyone interested in the history of gender and sexuality, shedding light on the transformative ideas that shaped societal norms.