The Third Sex by Richard Totman
The kathoey, the Thai term for ladyboys, have long been part of the cultural landscape of Thailand. Though they're a leading tourist attraction, the glamorous and attractive men who are now women are also a modern expression of an archaic tradition. Who are the ladyboys? Richard Totman introduces us to three individuals who started life as boys, but while at school decided to become kathoey. In The Third Sex, we follow their rites-of-passage as they become fully fledged kathoey, as their adult lives are witness to attitudes towards trans-gender in Thailand and the Western world. The Third Sex is a perceptive, accessible guide to the cultural, historical, religious, biological and psychological aspects of being trans-gender. The description of the kathoey is part of a wider discussion on trans-gender. 'Third sex' groups form part of many ancient communities, originating in beliefs that pre-date doctrinaire religions. Some religions, such as Buddhism, embrace trans-gendered individuals, but the role of other religions has led to persecution and repression. Many communities accept a 'third sex', from Thailand and Samoa to American Indians and the Philippines. Only in the West has savage repression occurred.
Examines kathoey through biology, sociology, sexuality, culture, religion, economics and their own gossipy anecdotes, and puts them in the context of other Animist cultures-- Time Out
From Samoan to Native American, men who choose to live as women are a part of many Asian and indigenous cultures. The Third Sex by Richard Totman explores the history of what Thais call kathoey. -- Gay Times
The three personal stories he tells, each moving in its own way...which Totman tells with sensitivity and insight...He is nothing if not thorough. Personally, I found some of the historical and cultural references more revealing...alternately entertaining and poignant. -- Literary Review
From Samoan to Native American, men who choose to live as women are a part of many Asian and indigenous cultures. The Third Sex by Richard Totman explores the history of what Thais call kathoey. -- Gay Times
The three personal stories he tells, each moving in its own way...which Totman tells with sensitivity and insight...He is nothing if not thorough. Personally, I found some of the historical and cultural references more revealing...alternately entertaining and poignant. -- Literary Review
Dr. Richard Totman was a Fellow of Oxford University, a theatre Director and has taught in Thailand. Souvenir Press have previously published his Social Causes of Illness and Mind, Stress and Health.
| SKU | Unavailable |
| ISBN 13 | 9780285642591 |
| ISBN 10 | 0285642596 |
| Title | The Third Sex |
| Author | Richard Totman |
| Condition | Unavailable |
| Binding Type | Paperback |
| Publisher | Profile Books Ltd |
| Year published | 2014-05-01 |
| Number of pages | 192 |
| Cover note | Book picture is for illustrative purposes only, actual binding, cover or edition may vary. |
| Note | Unavailable |