This web site was designed by

Jenn Barill, Lauren Lark, and L. Guilyn Maros

Lesbianism In The Eighteenth Century

Sincerity the Tie of Female Friendship from the Ladies Magazine (Donoghue 1783)

On this page we hope to give our viewers an idea of how female relationships were perceived in eighteenth century England. We will begin by explaining the origins of terminology describing lesbian activity. Then we will explore different aspects of lesbianism and other intimate female relationships. In order to do this, we will examine three different classic novels of the eighteenth century. Each of these contain allusions to lesbianism, though some are more subtle than others. To add to the topic of lesbianism in the eighteenth century, pornography and boarding schools will also be discussed.

 


Introduction

Tribadism

Boarding Schools

Pornography

Roxana

Pamela

The Nun

Bibliography

Other Links!

Eighteenth-Century England Home