Feminism and modern evangelicalism, and the tension between religion’s “ought” and human reality, are some of my favorite topics (hence my blog) so I was excited to finally pick up The Purity Myth. I expected to find a book that succinctly examined our cultural and subcultural obsession with the virgin-whore dichotomy, the use and misuse of “purity” in modern evangelical and American culture, and the political and personal consequences of our preoccupation with virginity. I was not disappointed.
The writing is strong, the argument is convincing, and there are good doses of humor throughout, which help bring a little levity to the sometimes-infuriating topics. I think it’s great that this subject is being discussed in the mainstream by such a capable writer. I’d happily recommend this book to anyone who is interested in feminism, women’s health, or abstinence-only politics, and wants a little help connecting the dots. None of the information is new or impossible to find elsewhere, but it’s packaged well and is a good resource.
For the full review, see here!
This book has been reviewed by several Cannonballers. I think you’ve finally convinced me to give it a go.
These are the types of books that I always want to read, so so badly, but never can.
I grew up in a staunchly atheistic, science (specifically biology)-centric household, and I’m a high school teacher who watches the ways in which (where I live, especially Hispanic) teenage girls struggle with the virgin/whore messages sent by their loose understanding of Catholicism and the expectations of our society.
As a result, even when the author is largely in agreement with my own concerns, reading and/or listening about religious practices such as those discussed in the book fills me with anger, which drives me to ranting, and results in bouts of resigned melancholy.
So thanks for reviewing. I get to indulge in the taste, if not the whole meal.
I read this for last year’s Cannonball Read. I’m glad you liked it!