The Curious History of Love

"As a commentary on the Western construction of love, the politics of love in Western society, and an analysis of modern romantic love, Kaufmann's book has considerable value to anthropology. Plus, it is written in a jocular tone, making it amusing to read even as it opens some vistas on a taken-for-granted Western experience."
Anthropology Review Database
"As sociologists have discovered the centrality of emotions as organizers of social life, Jean-Claude Kaufmann has emerged as the most insightful student of how romantic life is shaped through 'sentimental education.' In The Curious History of Love, Kaufmann succeeds in demonstrating that love has been shaped through historical contingencies and contemporary expectations. Focusing on how women experience this most curious sensation - the tingly experience that we call love - Kaufmann draws from history and from personal stories to produce a lively and astute analysis that speaks to the emotional economy as a source of joy and pain."
Gary Alan Fine, Northwestern University