Meaning of Eroticism (What it is, Concept and Definition)

What is Eroticism?

Eroticism is the provocation of sensual desire through imagination, fantasy, and sensory stimulation. He identifies with pleasure.

Eroticism is a characteristic feature of human beings par excellence because, unlike other animals, people mate for pleasure and not just for reproductive purposes. Therefore, eroticism is independent of reproductive instinct.

The word eroticism comes from the union of the Greek term eros, which means 'love' or 'sexual desire', with the Latin suffix ismo, which means 'action or activity'. Eros is also the name of the Greek god who was considered the god of attraction, love, and fertility. This god was called Cupid in Roman mythology.

Jean-Honoré Fragonard: The Swing (fragment), 1766. Rococo art.

Eroticism shows that human sexuality is a complex phenomenon, made up of a symbolic, affective, and psychological universe. This fulfills a psycho-affective function.

The theme of eroticism has been abundantly addressed in art and literature. For example, in One Thousand and One Nights, several of his stories describe erotic scenes. The very relationship between the Sultan and Scheherazade, protagonists of the story, contains erotic elements. Another example in art is found in the painting The Swing, by Jean-Honoré Fragonard.

Characteristics of eroticism

• It is a human phenomenon par excellence;
• It is expressed differently depending on the culture and psychology of the subjects;
• It expresses the symbolic and affective dimension of human sexuality;
• It does not necessarily imply the consummation of the carnal act;
• It feeds on the imagination, fantasy and memory;
• Use various resources for stimulation such as words, clothing, gestures, aromas, and/or sensations;
• Facilitates the seduction process;
• Strengthens ties with the couple.

 

 

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