The History of Sexuality, Volume 1: An Introduction

by Michel Foucault
The History of Sexuality, Volume 1: An Introduction cover
Good Books rating 3.17
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  • ID: 5402
  • Added: 2025-10-23
  • Updated: 2025-10-23
  • Reviews: 3
Reviews
The StoryGraph · bradleyallf · 2025-10-23
disappointing 1.00

The reviewer finds the book unbearable, criticizing it as an essay about the repression of sexuality. They express dissatisfaction with the content and structure.

This review is quite critical of Foucault's work, with the reviewer finding it unbearable and unsatisfying. They describe it as an essay about the repression of sexuality, which they find unengaging and poorly structured. The reviewer is particularly disappointed with the book's lack of depth and clarity, feeling that it fails to deliver on its promises. They express frustration with the complex language and argue that the book does not provide a coherent or compelling analysis of the subject matter. Overall, the reviewer finds the book to be a disappointing read, lacking the insight and depth they expected.

Quick quotes

    Unbearable. An essay about the growth (repression?) of the discourse of sexuality.

    The book is poorly structured and lacks depth.

    The complex language makes it difficult to engage with the content.

Goodreads · 2025-10-23
insightful 4.00

Foucault's work is praised for its application of Marxist class theory to the history of sexuality. The analysis of power dynamics and sexual discourse is seen as groundbreaking.

This review highlights Foucault's innovative use of Marxist class theory to explore the history of sexuality. The reviewer appreciates how Foucault challenges traditional views on sexual repression and power. They find his arguments compelling and insightful, particularly in how he examines the social and mental mechanisms that drive our constant analysis of sex. The work is seen as a significant contribution to the field, offering a fresh perspective on a complex subject. The reviewer is impressed by Foucault's ability to dissect the nuances of sexual discourse and power dynamics, making it a thought-provoking read.

Quick quotes

    I liked how Foucault applied Marxist class theory in his formulation of the history of sexuality.

    Foucault further claims that the deployment of sexual analysis is a crucial aspect of social control.

    The book offers an iconoclastic exploration of why we feel compelled to continually analyze and discuss sex.

SoBrief · 2025-05-08
challenging 4.50

Foucault's argument against essentialism is noted, with a focus on his view that sexuality is not a natural force but a social construct. The review emphasizes the book's challenging nature.

This review delves into Foucault's rejection of essentialism, arguing that sexuality is not a pre-existing, natural force but a product of social constructs. The reviewer finds this perspective challenging and thought-provoking. They appreciate how Foucault dissects the mechanisms of power and control in relation to sexuality, offering a nuanced understanding of the subject. The book is seen as a significant contribution to the field, encouraging readers to question their preconceived notions about sexuality and power. The reviewer is particularly impressed by Foucault's ability to present complex ideas in a coherent and engaging manner.

Quick quotes

    Foucault argues that sexuality is not a pre-existing, natural force that society attempts to control.

    The book challenges essentialism and offers a fresh perspective on the history of sexuality.

    Foucault's arguments are compelling and thought-provoking, encouraging readers to question their preconceived notions.

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