Cultural Encyclopedia of the Breast

About this book

Boobs. Tits. Hooters. Knockers. Jugs. Breasts. We celebrate them; we revile them. They nourish us; they kill us. And regardless of what we call them breasts have fascinated us since prehistoric times. This A-to-Z encyclopedia explores the historical magnitude and cultural significance of the breast over time and around the world. A team of international scholars from various disciplines provides key insights and information about the breast in art history fashion social movements medicine sexuality and more. Entries discuss depictions of breasts on ancient figurines in Renaissance paintings and in present-day advertisements. They examine how fashion has emphasized or de-emphasized the breast at various times. They tackle medical issuessuch as breast augmentation and breast cancerand controversies over breastfeeding. The breast as sexual object and even a site of smuggling are also covered. As a whole the Cultural Encyclopedia of the Breast takes an engaging and accessible look at this notable body part.