Obscene Pedagogies

Discover the enlightening insights of Carissa M. Harris in her thought-provoking book, Obscene Pedagogies, published in 2021. Spanning 277 pages, this work delves into the intricate relationship between obscenity, gender, and pedagogy in Middle English and Middle Scots literature from 1300 to 1580. Harris meticulously analyzes various literary forms, including erotic lyrics, single women's songs, and even the spirited debates captured in poems between men and women, as well as the iconic The Canterbury Tales.

Through her innovative close readings, Harris reveals how the sexually explicit and boldly vulgar language of these texts served as a crucial medium for teaching readers about sexual behavior and consent. With its focus on the shock value and transgressive nature of obscenity, Obscene Pedagogies invites readers to reconsider traditional narratives and explore the transformative power of literature in shaping societal views. This comprehensive study is a must-read for anyone interested in English literature, gender studies, and pedagogical theory.