The issue of rape in the 18th century, as seen through over thirty cases involving sex and sexism.

Rising to the challenge set by its title, this work begins by redrawing the outlines of a complicated judicial system. The trials discussed in this book involved more or less taboo aspects of daily life toward the end of the modern era: sexuality, violence, the female condition, ideas of gender. Saint-Jalmes then turns to the fates of the victims and perpetrators after the trial, an undertaking never before attempted in the context of research on rape. The decision to adopt a monographical approach contributes to more embodied reading of sexual affairs on a kingdom-wide sale. A powerful and unprecedented investigation that lends history a voice and gives prejudices a thorough dusting-off.