Books by Robert (University of Paris) Muchembled

"A rich cultural history of smells that sheds new light on an under-appreciated sense"--

Originally published in French under title: Une histoire de la violence. Editions du Seuil, c2008.

Can the orgasm be explained in historical terms? An almost incommunicable individual emotion yet also a cultural reality, the orgasm is part of, but also escapes, collective experience. The history of the orgasm is that of the hidden body, of forbidden desires, of flesh constrained by taboos and morality.

This highly original and engaging book by French historian Robert Muchembled, is a journey through time and space in search of the changing perception and significance of the devil in Western culture. * An outstanding book about the changing perception and significance of the devil in Western culture.