Words and phrases that are to do with sex in literary and spoken English - Responses to offending language from the eighteenth and nineteenth century

The book explores a significant shift in moral attitudes in England at the turn of the nineteenth century, highlighting a newfound prudishness that emerged among the younger generation. Perrin argues that this change, characterized by a more reserved approach to sexuality, was largely influenced by the rise of delicacy, particularly among women. The author notes that this cultural shift led to heightened sensitivity toward sexual topics, with behaviors such as blushing and fainting becoming common responses to perceived impropriety.