Erotica

Erotica refers to works of art, including literature, photography, film, sculpture and painting, that deal substantively with erotically stimulating or sexually arousing descriptions. Erotica is a modern word used to describe the portrayal of human sensuality and sexuality with high-art aspirations, differentiating such work from commercial pornography.

Definition

While pornography is typically defined as any description or depiction of sexual behavior that is intended to arouse sexual feelings, erotica is understood to focus more on the feelings and emotions of the individuals involved, and to be less explicit in its sexual content.

History

Erotic works have existed throughout history, in nearly every form of art. The earliest examples can be found in the cave paintings and carvings of the Upper Paleolithic era (around 15,000-10,000 BCE). In more recent times, the works of the Romantic and Victorian eras were often imbued with erotic undertones.

Erotica in Literature

Erotic literature comprises fictional and factual stories and accounts of human sexual relationships which have the power to or are intended to arouse the reader sexually. Such erotica takes the form of novels, short stories, poetry, true-life memoirs, and sex manuals.

Erotica in Art

Erotic art covers any artistic work that is intended to evoke erotic arousal or that depicts scenes of sexual activity. It includes paintings, drawings, sculptures, photographs, music and writing.

Erotica in Film

Erotic films are suggestive of sexuality and can range from romantic dramas to risqué comedies. While explicit sexual content is a common characteristic, erotic films focus more on the passion and emotion involved in sexual activity, rather than solely the act itself.

See Also

• Pornography
• Sexuality in Art
• Erotic Literature
• Erotic Film

References

Erotica Resources
Latest articles Most recent articles Ongoing trials	Wikipedia