Famed historian of religion Mircea Eliade observes that even moderns who proclaim themselves residents of a completely profane world are still unconsciously nou

The sacred and the profane. We visit sacred places full of ancient wisdom discovering the profanity that has caused Mother earth to suffer so. Discovering the s

This is the only encyclopedia and social history of swearing and foul language in the English-speaking world. It covers the various social dynamics that generat

"A pioneering work."--Steven Smith, University of Essex

A New York Times Book Review Editors' Choice and a Washington Post Notable Book of the Year "This book resees its subject with rare clarity and power as a paint