Summary:
"Onanism display'd" by Edmund Curll is a controversial treatise focusing on the topics of self-pollution, the biblical figure Onan, and the broader implications of human sexuality. Written in the early 18th century, this book examines the nature of self-pleasure, its consequences, and perceived moral failures associated with the act, while exploring various views held by theologians and anatomists. It presents a combination of moral, anatomical, and anecdotal evidence to argue against self-pollution, framing it as a significant sin. In this treatise, Curll takes aim at both societal attitudes towards sexuality and the arguments of a contemporary pamphleteer, challenging the traditions surrounding the interpretation of Onan's sin. He discusses the psychological and physical effects of self-pollution and asserts that it leads to a multitude of health issues and moral degradation. The book features case studies of individuals affected by such practices and outlines remedies for returning to chastity. Curll employs a blend of religious rhetoric and anatomical analysis to convey his message, making assertions about the human body's design and its intended functions within the context of procreation and morality. Overall, it presents a comprehensive yet contentious discourse on sexuality, morality, and human anatomy. (This is an automatically generated summary.)