PSYCHOPATHIA SEXUALIS
PSYCHOPATHIA SEXUALIS
WITH ESPECIAL REFERENCE TO THE
Antipathic Sexual Instinct
A MEDICO-FORENSIC STUDY
BY
Dr. R. V. KRAFFT-EBING
O. O. Prof, fiir Psychiatric und Nervenkrankheiten an der K. K. Universitat Wien
ONLY AUTHORIZED ENGLISH ADAPTATION OF THE TWELFTH GERMAN EDITION
BY F. J. REBMAN
REVISED EDITION
BROOKLYN, NEW YORK
PHYSICIANS AND SURGEONS BOOK COMPANY
HENRY AND PACIFIC STREETS la'll
Copyright, 1906 Copyright, 1922
OWNED BY
Physicians and Surgeons Book Co.
PRINTED IN U, S. A.
PREFACE TO THE FIRST EDITION.
Few people are conscious of the deep influence exerted by sexual life upon the sentiment, thought and action of man in his social relations to others. Schillerj in his essay ‘^Die Weltweisen,” touches upon this subject in these memorable words : ^^So long as philosophy keeps together the structure of the Universe so long does it maintain the world’s machinery by hunger and love”.
From the standpoint of the philosopher sexual life takes a subordinate position.
Schopenhauer (^^Die Welt als Wille und Vorstellung,” third edition, vol. ii., p. 586, etc.) considers it peculiar that love has hitherto offered material to the poet only and not also to the philosopher, the scant researches by Plato, Rousseau and Kant always excepted.
Whatever Schopenhauer, and after him E, von Hart- mann, the philosopher of the unknown, discuss about sexual relationship, is so thoroughly incorrect and illogical that, so far as science is concerned, empirical psychology and the metaphysics of man’s sexual existence are simply virgin soil. Michelet's ^X’amour” and Mantegazza's ^Thysiology of Love” are merely clever causeries, and cannot be considered in the light of scientific research.
The poet is the better psychologist, for he is swayed rather by sentiment than by reason, and always treats his subject in a partial fashion. He cannot discern deep shadows, because he is dazed by the blazing light and overcome by the benign heat of the subject. Although^
PBEFACE to the FIBST EDITIOIir.
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the ^Thysiology of Love’’ provides inexhaustible material for the poetry of all ages and of all peoples, nevertheless the poet will not discharge his arduous task adequately without the active co-operation of natural philosophy and, above all, that of medicine, a science which ever seeks to trace all psychological manifestations to their anatomical and physiological sources.
In these efforts medicine succeeds, perhaps, in forming a connection between the pessimistic reflections of the philosopher of the stamp of Schopenhauer and Hartmann^ and the gay and naive creations of the poet.
It is not intended to build up in this book a system of the psychology of sexual life, still from the close study of psychopathology there arise most important psychological facts which it behoves the scientist to notice.
The object of this treatise is merely to record the various psychopathological manifestations of sexual life in man and to reduce them to their lawful conditions. This task is by no means an easy one, and the author is well aware of the fact that, despite his (varied) far-reaching experience in psychiatry and criminal medicine, he is yet unable to offer anything but an imperfected system.
The importance of the subject, however, demands scientific research on account of its forensic bearing and its deep influence upon the common weal. The medical barrister only then finds out how sad the lack of our knowledge is in the domain of sexuality when he is called upon to express an opinion as to the responsibility of the accused whose life, liberty and honour are at stake. He then begins to appreciate the efforts that have been made to bring light into darkness.
philosophical conception of love (“Philosophy of the Unknown,” Berlin, 1869, p. 683) is: “ Love causes more pain than pleasure. Pleasure is only an illusion. Reason would demand the avoidance of love were it not for that fatal sexual instinct. Hence it would be better to be castrated.” Schopenhauer expresses the same view in his work; “Die Welt als Wille und Vorstellung,” third edition, voL ii. p. 686, etc.
PEEFACE TO THE FIEST EDITION. Vil
Certain it is that so far as sexual crimes are concerned erroneous ideas prevail, unjust decisions are given, and the law as well as public opinion are prima facie prejudiced against the offender.
The scientific study of the psychopathology of sexual life necessarily deals with the miseries of man and the dark sides of his existence, the shadow of which contorts the sublime image of the deity into horrid caricatures, and leads astray aestheticism and morality.
It is the sad privilege of medicine, and especially that of psychiatry, to ever witness the weaknesses of human nature and the reverse side of life.
The physician finds, perhaps, a (satisfaction) solace in the fact that he may at times refer those manifestations which offend against our ethical or sesthetical principles to a diseased condition of the mind or the body. He can save the honour of humanity in the forum of morality, and the honour of the individual before the judge and his fellow-men. It is from the search of truth that the exalted duties and rights of medical science emanate.
The author adopts the saying of Tardieu (‘^Des at- tentats aux moeiirs’’) : ‘‘Aucune misere physique ou morale, aucune plaie, quelque corrompue qu’elle soit, ne doit effraycr celui qiii s’ost voue a la science de Phomme, et le ministere sacre du medecin, en Pobligeant a tout voir, lui permet aussi de tout dire’\
He appeals to men engaged in serious study in the domains of natural philosophy and medical jurisprudence.
A scientific title has been chosen, and technical terms are used throughout the book in order to exclude the lay reader. For the same reason certain portions are written in Latin.
PEEFACE TO THE TWELFTH EDITION.
This edition is entirely rewritten and considerably enlarged. The (exceptionally) favourable criticisms which have been accorded in professional circles to former edi- tions are a guarantee that the book exercises a beneficent influence upon legislation and jurisprudence, and will as- sist in removing erroneous ideas and superannuated laws.
Its commercial success is the best proof that large numbers of unfortunate people find in its pages instruction and relief in the frequently enigmatical manifestations of sexual life. The hosts of letters that have reached the author from all parts of the world substantiate this as- sumption. Compassion and sympathy are strongly elicited by the perusal of these letters, which are written chiefly by men of refined thought and of high social and scientific standing. They reveal sufferings of the soul in compari- son to which all the other afflictions dealt out by Fate appear as trifles.
May it continue to convey solace and social elevation to its readers.
The number of technical terms has been increased, and the Latin language is more frequently made use of than in former editions.
May the same kind reception be accorded to this edition which was enjoyed by its predecessors. That it may prove of utility in the service of science, justice and humanity is the wish of the
Gbaz.
AUTHOK.
PUBLISHERS’ PREFACE
The publishers sincerely trust that this revised translation from the Twelfth German Edition of Psychopathia 8ex- mlis by Dr. R. v. Krafft-Ebing will be received with favour by those for whom the book is written, and that its readers will derive that benefit which the author had in view.
Preparing and sifting the material for the Twelfth Edition of this work was the final task of the late author. When he was attacked by the fatal illness which carried him off, the manuscript was all ready for the printer.
Dr. Gugl and Dr. Stichl, pupils and for many years collaborators of the author, were entrusted by the family of the deceased with the revision of the proofs.
The sale of the book is rigidly restricted to the mem- bers of the medical and legal professions.
THE PUBLISHERS
CONTENTS
PA&S
L FEAGMENTS OF A SYSTEM OF PSYCHOLOGY OF SEXUAL LIFE x
Force of sexual instinct, 1 — Sexual instinct the basis of ethical sentiments, 2 — ^Love as a passion, 2 — Historical development of sexual life, 3 — Chastity, 3 — Christianity,
3 — ^Monogamy, 4 — Position of woman in Islam, 5 — Sen- suality and morality, 5 — Cultural demoralisation of sexual life, 5 — Episodes of the moral decay of nations, 6 — Development of sexual desire; puberty, 7 — Sensuality and religious fanaticism, 7 — Relation between religious and sexual domains, 8 — Sensuality and art, 11 — Ideal- isation of first love, 12 — True love, 12 — Sentimentality,
12 — Platonic love, 13 — i-rove and Friendship, 13 — Differ- ence between the love of the man and that of the woman,
14 — Celibacy, 15 — Adultery, 15 — Matrimony, 16 — Fond- ness of dress, 16 — Facts of physiological fetichism, 17 — Religious and erotic fetichism, 18 — Hair, hand, foot of the female as fetiches, 21 — ^Eye, smell, voice, psychical qualities as fetich, 22.
n. PHYSIOLOGICAL FACTS a6
Puberty, 25 — Time limit of sexual life, 26 — Sexual instinct,
26— Localisation, 27 — Physiological development of sexual life, 28 — Erections : Centre of erection, 28 — Sphere of sexuality and olfaction, 32 — Flagellation as a stimu- lant for sexual life, 34 — Sect of flagellants, 35 — “ Flagel- lum Salutis ” of Paulini, 36 — “Erogenous” (hyperaos- thetic) zones, 38 — Control of sexual instinct, 40 — Coitus, 40 — Ejaculation, 41.
m. ANTHHOPOLOGICAL FACTS
Primary and secondary sexual characteristics, 42 — Psychical characteristics, 42 — Differentiation of sexes, 42-^yn«- comasty, 43 — Development of sexual type, 44 — Eunuchs, 46.
XI
XII
CONTENTS
IV. GENERA FATHOLOGT (NETTEOLOGICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL)
frequency and importance of pathological manifestations, 48 — Schedule of Literature, 48 — Sexual neuroses, 49 — In- fluences stimulating the erectile tissues, 49 — Paralysis of the erectile tissues, 50 — ^Temporary impotence, 60 — Neurosis of the nerve centres of ejaculation, 51 — Neuroses produced by cerebral causes, 62 — Pci/radoana, f.e., sexual instinct outside the period of anatomical- physiological processes, 55 — Sexual instinct in early childhood, 55 — Sexual instinct reappearing in old age, 67 — Sexual perversions in seniles due to impotence or dementia, 57 — Anwstheaia sexualis, i.e., absence of sexual instinct, 61 — congenital, 61 — acquired, 68 — Hyper-
(Bsthesia, i.e., patliologically exaggerated sexual instinct, 69 — Conditions and manifestations of this anomaly, 70 — Parwstheaia or perversion of the sexual instinct, 79 — Perversion and perversity, 79 — Sadism^ an attempted ex- planation of sadism, 80 — Sadistic lust murder, 88 — An- thropophagy, 95 — Mutilation of corpses, 99 — Maltreat- ment of women by cutting or flogging, etc., 105 — Defile- ment of female persons, 113 — Symbolic sadism, ue., brutal force employed against female persons, 118 — Ideal sadism, 118 — Sadism practised on any other object, 121 — Flogging of boys, 121 — Sadistic acts on animals, 125 • — Sadism in woman, 129 — Kleist*s “ Penthesilea,” 130 — Masochism f 131 — Essence and clinical manifestations of masochism, 132 — Maltreatment and humiliation invited for the purpose of sexual gratification, 134 — Passive flagellation and its relations to masochism, 140 — Fre^ quency and practices of masochism, 149 — Symbolic maso- chism, 169 — Ideal masochism, 161 — Jean Jacques Rous- seau, 166 — Masochism in scientific and belletristical literature, 169 — Latent masochism, 171 — Shoe and foot fetichism, 171 — Koprolagnia, 186-Masochisra in woman, 195 — An attempted explanation of masochism, 200 — Sexual bondage, 202 — ^Masochism and sadism, 213 — Fetichism j definition of, 218 — Cases in which the fetich is a part of the female body, 224 — Hand fetichism, 226 — Bodily defects as fetiches, 234 — Hair fetichism, 239 — Hair despoilers, 241 — The fetich is a part of female attire, 247 — Mania for (theft of) female handkerchiefs, 255 — Shoe fetichism, 260 — The fetich consists of some special fabric, 268 — Fur, silk, velvet, gloves, roses, 274 — Beast fetichism, 281 — Antipathic sexual instinct, 282 — Acquired sexual inversion in either sex, 286 — Neurotic taint a condition of antipathic sexual instinct, 289— Grades of acquired perversion, 289 — Simple inversion of sexual instinct, 289 — Eviration amd defemination, 297 — Insanity among the Scythians, 302 — Mujerados, 303 — Transition to metamorphosis sexuaUs, 304 — Metamor- phosis sexualis paranoica, 328 — Congenital antipathic sexuality, 336 — ^Various clinical forms thereof, 336 — Gen- eral symptoms, 339 — Attempted explanation of this anomaly, 340 — Congenital antipathic sexuality in the male, 350 — Psychical hermaphroditism, 352 — Homo- sexuality. 364 — Urnings, 364 — Effemination, 382 —
CONTENTS
XIII
PAGB
Androgyny, 389 — Congefiital <mtipath/ic aeamaUty in the female^ 395 — Complications of antipathic sexual instinct,
439 — ^Diagnosis, prognosis and therapy of sexual inver- sion, 443.
17. SPECIAL PATHOLOGY 445
The manifestations of pathological sexual life in the various forms and conditions of mental disturbance, 462 — In- hibition of psychical development, 462 — Acquired mental debility, 466 — Dementia following psychosis or apoplexy,
466 — Or injuries to the head, 466 — Or lues cerebralis,
467 — Dementia paralytica^ 468 — Epilepsy, 469 — Periodi- cal dementia, 478 — Psychopathia sexualis periodica, 479 — ^Mania, 481 — Symptoms of sexual excitement in maniacs, 481 — Satyriasis and nymphomania, 482 — Chronic satyriasis and nymphomania, 486 — Melancholia,
492 — Hysteria, 492 — Paranoia, 494.
V. PATHOLOGICAL SEXUAL LITE BEFOBE THE
CEIMINAL FOEUM 49&
Sexual crimes endanger the common weal, 498 — On the in- crease, 499 — Probable causes, 500 — Clinical researches,
601 — Sexual crimes not properly understood by the law profession, 502 — Points for the proper judgment of sexual crimes, 502 — Conditions for the cessation of responsi- bility, 502 — Points for the psychopathological importance of sexual crimes, 503 — ii^exual crimes classified, 503 — Exliibitionists, 504 — Frotteurs, 522 — Defilers of statues,
625 — Kape and lust-murder, 526 — Bodily injury, viola- - tion of things, cruelty to animals caused by sadism,
533 — Masochism and sexual bondage, 539 — Bodily injury, robbery, theft emanating from fetichism, 543 — Notes on the question of responsibility in sexual olTcnces caused by delusions, 549 — Immorality with persons under the age of fourteen, 552 — Non-psychopathological cases, 552 — Psychopathological cases, 554 — ITnnatural abuse, 561 — Violation of animals, sodomy, bestiality, 561 — Zooerasty,
563 — Unnatural .sexual relations with persons of the same sex, pederasty, 571 — In relation to sexual inversion,
672 — Necessity to distinguish between pathological and normal conditions of pederasty, 572 — Forensic opinion on congenital sexual inversion and when pathologically acquired, 573 — Letter from an urning, 574 — Reasons why legal proceedings against homosexual acts should be stopped, 578 — Cultivated pederasty (not pathological),
685 — Causes of the vice, 585 — Social life of pederasts,
687 — A woman-hater’s ball in Berlin, 590 — Various cate- gories of male-loving men, 593 — Pcrdicatio mulierum,
594 — Amor Irshicns, 607 — Necrophilia, 611 — Incest, 612 — Violation of wards, 014.
INDEX -
- 615
I. FKAGMENTS OF A SYSTEM OF PSYCHOLOGY OF SEXUAL LIFE.
The propagation of the human race is not left to mere accident or the caprices of the individual, but is guaran- teed by the hidden laws of nature which are enforced by a mighty, irresistible impulse. Sensual enjoyment and physical fitness are not the only conditions for the en- forcement of these laws, but higher motives and aims, such as the desire to continue the species or the individu- ality of mental and physical qualities beyond time and space, exert a considerable influence. Man puts himself at once on a level with the beast if he seeks to gratify lust alone, but he elevates his superior position when by curbing the animal desire he combines with the sexual functions ideas of morality, of the sublime, and the beau- tiful.
Placed upon this lofty pedestal he stands far above nature and draws from inexhaustible sources material for nobler enjoyments, for serious work and for the realisation of ideal aims. Maudsley (^^Deutsche Klinik,’^ 1873, 2, 3) justly claims that sexual feeling is the basis upon which social advancement is developed.
Tf man were deprived of sexual distinction and the nobler enjoyments arising therefrom, all poetry and prob- ably all moral tendency would be eliminated from his life.
Sexual life no doubt is the one mighty factor in the individual and social relations of man which disclose his powers of activity, of acquiring property, of establishing a liome, of awakening altruistic sentiments towards a person of the opposite sex, and towards his own issue as well as towards the whole human race.
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PSYCHOPATHIA SEXUALIS.
Sexual feeling is really the root of all ethics, and no doubt of lestheticism and religion.
The subliinest virtues, even the sacrifice of self, may spring from sexual life, which, however, on account of its sensual power, may easily degenerate into the lowest passion and basest vice.
Love unbridled is a volcano that burns down and lays waste all around it; it is an abyss that devours all — honour, substance and health.
It is of great psychological interest to follow up the gradual development of civilisation and the influence exerted by sexual life upon habits and morality/ The gratification of the sexual instinct seems to be the primary motive in man as well as in beast. Sexual intercourse is done openly, and man and woman are not ashamed of their nakedness. The savage races, e.ff.y Australasians, Polynesians, Malaysof the Philippines arc still in this stage (vide PIoss). Woman is the common property of man, the spoil of the strongest and mightiest, who chooses the most winsome for his ovm, a sort of instinctive sexual selection of the fittest.
Woman is a ‘‘chattel,” an article of commerce, exchange or gift, a vessel for sensual gratification, an implement for toil. The presence of shame in the manifestations and exercise of the sexual functions, and of modesty in the mutual relations between the sexes are the foundations of morality. Thence arises the desire to cover the nakedness (“and they saw that they were naked”) and to perforin the act in private.
The development of this grade of civilisation is fur- thered by the conditions of frigid climes which necessitate the protection of the whole body against the cold. It is an
^Cf. Lomhrosoy “The Criminal”; Weatermarch, “The History of Marriage “ Das Weib in der Natur- und Vdlkerkunde,” tliird
edition, vol. ii., p. 413-90. Joseph Muller, “ Das sexuelle Leben der INaturvblkur,” 2 Aufl. 1902; derselhe, “Das sexuelle Leben der altcn Kulturvblker, 1902 (Leipzig, Grieben).
A SYSTEM OF PSYCHOLOGY OF SEXUAL LIFE. 8
anthropological fact that modesty can be traced to mud earlier periods among northern races/
Another element which tends to promote the refined development of sexual life is the fact that woman ceases to be a ‘^chattel’\ She becomes an individual being, and, although socially still far below man, she gradually ac- quires rights, independence of action, and the privilege to bestow her favours where she inclines. She is wooed by man. Traces of ethical sentiments pervade the rude sen- sual appetite, idealisation begins and community of woman ceases. The sexes are drawn to each other by mental and physical merits and exchange favours of preference. In this stage woman is conscious of the fact that her charms belong only to the man of her choice. She seeks to hide them from others. This forms the foundation of modesty, chastity and sexual fidelity so long as love endures.
This development is hastened wdierever nomadic habits yield to the spirit of colonisation, where man establishes a household. He feels the necessity for a companion in life, a housewife in a settled home.
The Egypt tans, the Israelites, and the Greeks reached this level at early periods, so did the Teutonic races. Its principal characteristics are high appreciation of virginity, chastity, modesty and sexual fidelity in strong contrast to the habits of other peoples ^vhere the host places the personal charms of the wife at the disposal of the guest.
The history of «Tapan furnishes a striking proof that this high grade of civilisation is often the last stage of moral development, for in that country to within twenty years ago prostitution was not considered to impair in any way the social status of the future wife.
Christianity raised the union of the sexes to a sublime position by making woman socially the equal of man and by elevating the bond of love to a moral and religious
^\ccordiiipf to Westermarclc^ op. cit., it was "not the feeling of shame wliich suggested the garment, but the garment engendered shame. The desire to make themselves more attractive originated the habit among men and women to cover their nakedness."
4
PBTCHOPATHIA SBXUALIS.
institution.' Thence emanates the fact that the love of man, if considered from the standpoint of advanced civili- sation, can only be of a monogamic nature and must rest upon a staple basis. Even though nature should claim
^This assertion may be modified in so far that the symbolical and sacramental character of matrimony was clearly defined only by the Council of Trent, although the spirit of Christianity always tended to raise woman from the inferior position wdiich she occupied in pre- vious centuries and in the Old Testament.
The tradition that woman was created from the rib of the sleep- ing man (see Genesis) is one of the causes of delay in this direction, for after the fall she is told “ thy wdll shall be subject to man,” Ac- cording to the Old Testament, woman is responsible for the fall of man, and this became the corner-stone of Christian teaching. Thus the social position of woman had to be neglected, as it were, until the spirit of Christianity had conquered tradition and scholastic tenets.
It is a remarkable fact that the gospels (barring divorce. Matt, xix. 9) contain not a word in favour of woman. The clemency shown towards the adulteress and the penitent Magdalen do not affect the position of woman in general. The epistles of St. Paul definitely in- sist that no change can be permitted in the position of woman ( 2 Cor. xi. 3-12; Eph. v. 22, w^oman shall be subject to man,” and 23, w’oman shall fear man ” ) .
How much the fathers of the Church are prejudiced against woman on account of Eve’s part in the temptation may be easily learned from Tertullian, Woman, thou shouldst ever go in mourn- ing and sackcloth, thy eyes filled with tears. Thou has brought about the ruin of mankind.” Jerome has aught but good to say about woman. “ Woman is the gate of the devil, the road of evil, the sting of the scorpion” (“De Cultu Feminarum,” i. I).
Canon law declares : Man only is created to the image of God, not woman ; therefore woman shall serve him and be his handmaid
The Provincial Council of Macon (sixth century) seriously dis- cussed the question whether woman liad a soul at all.
These opinions of the Church had a sympathetic influence upon the peoples who embraced Christianity. Among the converted Ger- manic races the dower value of woman fell considerably (J. Falke, “ Die ritterliche Gesellschaft,” Berlin, 1802, p. 49. lie the valuation of the two sexes among the Jews, cf. 3 Moses, xxvii. 3-4).
Even polygamy, wdiich is distinctly recognised in the Old Testa- ment, (Deut. xxi. 15) is nowhere in the New Testament definitely prohibited. In fact many Christian princes {e.g. the Merovingian kings: Chlotar I., Charibert I., Pippin I. and other Frankish nobles) indulged in polygamy witljout a protest being raised by the Church at the time ( Weinhold, Die deutschen Frauen im Mittelalter,” ii., p. 15 ; cf. Unger, “ Marriage,” etc., and Louis Bridel, “ La Femme et le Droit,” Paris, 1884).
A SYSTEM OF PSYCHOLOGY OF SEXUAL LIFE.
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merely the law of propagation, a community (family or state) cannot subsist without the guarantee that the off- spring thrive physically, morally and intellectually. From the moment when woman was recognised the peer of man, when monogamy became a law and was consolidated by legal, religious and moral conditions, the Christian nations obtained a mental and material superiority over the poly- gamic races, and especially over Islam.
Mohammed strove to raise woman from the position of the slave and mere handmaid of enjoyment, to a higher social and matrimonial grade; yet she remained still far below man, who alone could obtain divorce, and that on the easiest terms.
Above all things Islamism excludes woman from public life and enterprise, and stifles her intellectual and moral advancement. The Mohammedan woman is simply a means for sensual gratification and the propagation of the species ; whilst in the sunny balm of Christian doctrine, blossom forth her divine virtues and her qualities of house- wife, companion and mother. What a contrast!
Compare the two religions and their standard of future happiness. The Christian expects a heaven of spiritual bliss absolutely free from carnal pleasure; the Mohamme- dan an eternal harem, a paradise among lovely houris. Yet, in spite of the aid which religion, law, education and the moral code offer him, the Christian (to subdue his sensual inclination) often drags pure and chaste love from its sublime pedestal and wallows in the quagmire of sen- sual enjoyment and lust.
Life is a never-ceasing duel between the animal instinct and morality. Only will-power and a strong character can emancipate man from the meanness of his corrupt nature, and teach him how to enjoy the pure pleasures of love and pluck the noble fruits of earthly existence.
It is an open question whether the moral status of mankind has undergone an improvement in our times. No doubt society at large shows a greater veneer of
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PSYOHOPATHIA BEXUALIS.
modesty and virtue, and vice is not as flagrantly practised as of yore.
The reader of Scherr (^^Deutsche Culturgeschiclite’’) will gain the impression that our moral code is not so gross as was that of the middle ages, even if only more re* fined manners have taken the place of former coarseness.
In comparing the various stages of civilisation it be- comes evident that, despite periodical relapses, public morality has made steady progress, and that Christianity is the chief factor in this advance.
We are certainly far beyond sodomitic idolatry, the public life, legislation and religious exercises of ancient Greece, not to speak of the worship of Phallus and Priapus in vogue among the Athenians and Babylonians, or the Bacchanalian feasts of the Romans and the privileged posi- tion held by the courtesans of those days.
There are stagnant and fluctuating periods in this slow progress, but they are only like the ebb- and flood-tide of sexual life in the individual.
The episodes of moral decay always coincide with the progression of effeminacy, lewdness and luxuriance of the nations. These phenomena can only be ascribed to the higher and more stringent demands which circumstances make upon the nervous system. Exaggerated tension of the nerv'ous system stimulates sensuality, leads the indi- V’idual as well as the masses to excesses, and undermines the very foundations of society, and the morality and pur- ity of family life. The material and moral ruin of the com- munity is readily brought about by debauchery, adultery and luxury. Greece, the Roman Empire, and France under Louis XIV. and XV., are striking examples of this assertion. In such periods of civic and moral decline the most monstrous excesses of sexual life may be observed, which, however, can always be traced to psycho-patho- logical or neuro-pathological conditions of the nation in- volved. ^
KJf. Friedldnder, " Sittengeschiclite Romg”; Wiedemeister, “Der CI&sarenwahiiBinii Buetoniut, MoreoAi^ ** Des aberrations du sens f 6n6sique
A SYSTEM OF PSYCHOLOGY OF SEXUAL LIFE,
7
Large cities are hotbeds in which neuroses and low morality are bred, vide the history of Babylon, Nineveh, Rome and the mysteries of modern metropolitan life. It is a remarkable fact that among savages and half -civilised races sexual intemperance is not observed (except among the Aleutians and the Oriental and Nama-Hottentot women who practise masturbation).^
The study of sexual life in the individual naturally deals with its various phases, beginning with the stage of puberty to the extinction of sexual feeling.
Mantegazza (“Physiology of Love’’) draws a beautiful picture of the bodings and yearnings of awakening love, of the mysterious sensations, foretastes and impulses that fill the heart, long before the period of puberty has arrived. Psychologically speaking, this is, perhaps, the most mo- mentous epoch of life, for the wealth of ideas and senti- ments engendered through it, forms the standard by which psychic activity may be measured.
The advance of puberty develops the impulses of youth, hitherto vague and undefined, into conscious realisation of the sexual power. The psychological reactions of animal passion manifest themselves in the irresistible desires of intimacy, and the longing to bestoAV the strange affections of nature upon others.
Religion and poetry frequently become the temporary haven of rest, even after the period of storm and stress is passed. Religious enthusiasm is more commonly met with in the young than the old. The lives of the saints*
* Friedreich (“ Hdb. dei gorichtlicharztlich, Praxis,” 1843, i. p. 271) is of a different opinion, for according to him the Red Indians of America are addicted to the practice of pederasty. Of. also Lorn- broso, p. 42, and Blochs BeitrUge zur Etiologie der Psychopathia Sexualis, 2. Theil, 1903.
^Cf, Friedreich (“ Gerichtl. Psychologic,” p. 389) who quotes nu- merous examples. For instance, Blankebin, the nun, was constantly tormented by the thought of what could have become of that part of Christ which was removed in circumcision.
Veronica Juliani^ beatified by Pope Pius II., in memory of the divine lamb, took a real lamb to bed with her, kissed it and suekled it on her breasts.
8
PSYCHOPATHIA SBXUALIS.
are replete with remarkable records of temptations. The religious feasts of the ancients often degenerated into orgies, or into mystic cults of a voluptuous character. Even the meetings of certain modern sects dissolve them- selves simply into obscene practices.
On the contraiy we find that the sexual instinct, when disappointed and unappeased, frequently seeks and finds a substitute in religion.
Even where psycho-pathological conditions are diag- nosed beyond dispute, this relation between religious and sexual feelings can easily be established. The cause of re- ligious insanity is often to be found in sexual aberration. In psychosis a motley mixture of religious and sexual delu- sions is observable, viz,j in female lunatics who imagine that they are or will be the mother of God, and especially in persons slaves to masturbation. The cruel, sensual acts of chastisement, violation, emasculation and even crucifix- ion perpetrated upon seK by religious maniacs, bear out this assertion.^
Any attempt to explain the psychological relations be- tween religion and love must needs meet with difficulties, for analogous instances are met with in great numbers.
Sexual inclinations and religious leanings (if consid- ered as psychological factors), are composed of two ele- ments.
Schleiermacher recognised the primary feeling of de-
Catharine of Genoa often burned witli sucli intense inward fire that in order to cool herself she would throw herself upon the ground crying, Love, love, I can endure it no longer At the same time she felt a peculiar inclination to her confessor. One day lifting his hand to her nose she noticed a peculiar odour which penetrated to her heart ‘‘ a heavenly perfume that would awaken the dead
St, Armelle and St. Elizabeth were troubled with a similar long- ing for the Infant Jesus. The temptations of St. Anthony, of Padua, are known to the world. Of significance is an old Protestant prayer: “Oh! that I had found thee, blessed Emanuel; that thou wert with me in my bed, to bring delight to body and soul. Come and be mine. My heart sball be thy resting place.'*
* Of. Friedreich, “ Diagnostik der psych. Krankheiten,” p. 247 etc. ; V eumann, Lehrb. d. “ Psychiatric,” p. 80.
A SYSTEM OF PSYCHOLOGY OF SEXUAL LIFE. 6
pendence as the paramount element in religion, long before modern anthropological and ethnographic research in the domain of primitive causes, arrived at the same conclu- sions.
The secondary and truly ethical element, i.e., the love of God, enters the religious sentiment only when a highei stage of culture is attained. At first, the double-faced, now benevolent, now angry, chimeras of complicated mythologies, take the place of the evil spirits, until they in turn are dislodged by the benign form of the deity, the giver of perpetual hajjpiriess, whether it be in the shape of Jehovah as the author of all earthly blessings, or Allah who bestows physical delight in Paradise, or Christ who is gone before to prepare mansions of eternal light and bliss, or Nirvana w^ho reigns in the heaven of the Buddhist.
The primary eleiiieut of sexual preference is love, i.e., the expectation of unsurpassed pleasure. The secondary element is the feeling of dependence, although it is in reality the root from Avhich spring alike, as the former may be entirely absent. It certainly exists in a stronger measure in woman, on account of her social position, and the passive part which she takes in the act of procreation ; but at times it is also found in men who are of a feminino type.
Religion as well as sexual love is mystical and trans- cendental. In sexual love the real object of the instinct, Le., propagation of tlie species, is not always present to the mind during the act, and the impulse is much stronger than could be jii stilled by the gratification that can possibly be derived from it. Religious love strives for the ])ossession of an object that is absolutely ideal, and cannot be defined by experimental knowledge. Both are metaphysical processes 'which give unlimited scope to imagination.
They converge, how’ever, in a similar indefinite focus} for the gratification of the sensual appetite promises a boon which far surpasses all other conceivable pleasures^ and faith has in store a bliss that endures for ever.
10
PSYCHOPATHIA SEXTJALI8.
In either condition the mind is conscious of the enor- mous importance of the object to be obtained; thus im- pulses often become irresistible and overcome all opposing motives. But because neither of them can at times grasp the real object of their existence they easily degenerate into fanaticism, in which intensity of emotion overbalances clearness and stability of reason. Expectation of un- fathomed bliss is now coupled with reckless resignation and unconditional submission.
Owing to this conformity it happens that under high tension one dislodges the other, or that both make their appearance together; for every violent upheaval in the soul must necessarily sweep along its surroundings. Nature, always the same, draws alike upon these two spheres of conception, now forcing one then the other into stronger activity, which degenerates even into acts of cruelty either actively exercised, or passively endured.
In religious life this may assume the shape of self- sacrifice or self-destruction, prompted by the idea that the victim is necessary for the material sustenance of the deity. The sacrifice is brought as a sign of reverence or submission, as a tribute, as an atonement for sins com- mitted, or as a price wherewith to purchase happiness.
If, however, the offering consists in self-punishment — and that occurs in all religions! — it serves not only as a symbol of submission, or an equivalent in the exchange of present pain for future bliss, but everything that is thought to come from the deity, all that is done in obedience to divine mandates or to the honour of the Godhead, is felt directly as pleasure. Thus religious exuberance leads to ecstasy, a condition in which con- sciousness is so preoccupied with feelings of mental pleasure, that distress is stripped of its painful quality.
Exaggerated religious enthusiasm also finds pleasure in the sacrifice of another person, when rapture combines with sympathy.
Similar manifestations may be observed in sexual life,
A SYSTEM OF PSYCHOLOGY OF BEXTJAL LIFE. 11
as will be shown later on under the headings of Sadism and Masochism.
Thus the relations existing between religion, lust, and cruelty,^ may be condensed into the formula: Religious and sexual hyperaesthesia at the acme of development show the same volume of intensity and the same quality of excitement, and may therefore under given circum- stances interchange. Both will in certain pathological states degenerate into cruelty.
Sexual influence is just as potent in the awakening of aesthetic sentiments. What other foundation is there for the plastic art or poetry? From (sensual) love arises that warmth of fancy which alone can inspire the creative mind, and the fire of sensual feeling kindles and preserve? the glow and fervour of art.
This explains the sensual natures of great poets and artists.
The world of fancy keeps pace with the development of sexual j^ower. Whoever during that period cannot be animated by the ideals of all that is great, noble and beautiful remains a ^^Philistine’^ all his life. Even the dolt tries his hand at poetry w-hen in love.
On the borders of physiological reaction may be obsen^ed those mysterious processes of maturing puberty, which give origin to obscure yearnings and moods of despondency and W eltschmerz, rendering life tedious, and coupled with the impulse to inflict pain and sorrow upon others (weak analogies of a psychological connection be- tween lust and cruelty).
First love for ever trends in a romantic idealising direction. It wraps the beloved object in the halo of perfection. In its incipient stages it is of a platonic character, and turns rather to forms of poetry and history.
’Tins may be observed in the actual life as well as in the fiction and the plastic arts of de/ycnerate eras. For instance, BermnVs carv- ing, which represents St. Teresa ** sinking in an hysterical faint upon a marble cloud, whilst an amorous angel plimges the arrow (of divine love) into her heart.’* — Lubke,
13
PSYCHOPATHIA SBXUALIS,
With the approach of puberty it runs the risk of trans- ferring the idealising powers upon persons of the opposite sex, even though mentally, physically and socially they be of an inferior station. To this may easily be traced many cases of misalliance, abduction, elopement and errors of early youth, and those sad tragedies of passionate love that are in conflict with the principles of morality or social standing, and often terminate in murder, self-destruction, and double suicide.
Purely sensual love is never true and lasting, for which reason first love is, as a rule, but a passing infatuation, a fleeting passion.
True love is rooted in the recognition of the moral and mental qualities of the beloved person, and is equally ready to share pleasures and sorrows and even to make sacrifices. True love shrinks from no dangers or obstacles in the struggle for the undisputed possession of the beloved.
Deeds of daring and heroism lie in its wake. But un- less the moral foundation be solid it will lead to crime, and jealousy often mars its beauty.
The love of the feeble-minded is based upon sentimen- tality, and when unrequited results in suicide.
Sentimental love is likely to degenerate into a bur- lesque, especially when the sensual element lacks force (e.g. the Knight of Joggenburg, Don Quixote, and many of the minstrels and troubadours of the middle ages).
This kind of love is nauseating and has a repulsive or ludicrous effect on others, w’hilst true love and its mani- festations command sympathy, respect, and even fear.
Love when weak is frequently turned away from its real object into different channels, such as voluptuous poetry, bizarre aesthetics, or religion. In the latter case it readily falls a prey to mysticism, fanaticism, sectarian- ism or religious mania. A smattering of all this can al- ways be found in the immature love of early puberty. The poetical effusions of that period of life are only then worthy of perusal when emanating from the pen of the truly endowed genius.
A SYSTEM OF PSYCHOLOGY OP SEXUAL LIFE. 18
Ethical surroundings are necessary in order to elevate love to its true and pure form, but, notwithstanding, sensuality will ever remain its principal basis.
Platonic love is a platitude, a misnomer for ‘^kindred spirits’’.
Since love implies the presence of sexual desire it can only exist between persons of different sex capable of sexual intercourse. When these conditions are wanting or destroyed it is replaced by friendship.
The sexual functions of man exercise a very marked influence upon the development and preservation of char- acter. Manliness and self-reliance are not the qualities which adorn the impotent onanist.
Gyurhovechhy (‘^Mannl. Impotenz,” Wien, 1889) is correct in his observation that virility establishes the ratio of difference between old men and young, and that im- potence impairs health, mental freshness, activity, self* confidence and imagination. The damage stands in proportion to the age of the subject and the extent of his debauchery.
The sudden loss of the virile powers often produces melancholia, or is the cause of suicide when life without love is a mere blank.
In cases where the reaction is less pronounced, the victim is morose, peevish, egotistical, jealous, narrow- minded, cowardly, devoid of energy, self-respect and honour.
The Skopzes for instance after castration rapidly de* generate.
This matter will be further elucidated under the headr ing of ^^Effeminatio” {v. i.).
In the sedate matron this condition is of minor psy* chological importance, though it is noticeable. The biological change affects her but little if her sexual career has been successful, and loving children gladden the ma- ternal heart. The situation is different, however, where
14
PSYCHOPATHIA SEXUALIS.
sterility has denied that happiness, or where enforced celibacy prevented the performance of the natural func- tions.
These facts characterise strongly the differences that prevail in the psychology of sexual life in man and woman, and the dissimilarity of sexual feeling and desire in both.
Man has beyond doubt the stronger sexual appetite of the two. From the period of pubescence he is instinc- tively drawn towards woman. Ills love is sensual, and his choice is strongly prejudiced in favour of physical attractions. A mighty impulse of nature makes him aggressive and impetuous in his courtship. Yet the law of nature does not wholly fill his psychic being. Having w^on the prize, his love is temporarily eclipsed by other vital and social interests.
Woman, ho'svever, if physically and mentally normal, and properly educated, has but little sensual desire. If it were otherwise, marriage and family life would be empty words. As yet the man who avoids women, and the woman who seeks men are sheer anomalies.
Woman is wooed for her favour. She remains passive. Her sexual organisation demands it, and the dictates of good breeding come to her aid.
Nevertheless, sexual consciousness is stronger in woman than in man. Her need of love is greater, it is continual not periodical, but her love is more spiritual than sensual. Man primarily loves woman as his wife, and then as the mother of his children; the first place in woman’s heart belongs to the father of her child, tlie second to him as husband. Woman is influenced in her choice more by mental than by physical qualities. As mother she divides her love between offspring and husband. Sensuality is merged in the mother’s love. Thereafter the wife accepts marital intercourse not so much as a sensual gratification than as a proof of her hus- band’s affection.
Woman loves with her whole soul. To woman love
A SYSTEM OP PSYCHOLOGY OF SEXUAL LIFE. 15
is life, to man it is the joy of life. Misfortune in love bruises the heart of man ; but it ruins the life of woman and wrecks her happiness. It is really a psychological question worthy of consideration whether woman can truly love twice in her life. Woman’s mind certainly inclines more to monogamy than that of man.
In the sexual demands of man’s nature will be foimd the motives of his weakness towards woman. He is enslaved by her, and becomes more and more dependent upon her as he grows weaker, and the more he yields to sensuality. This accounts for the fact that in the periods of decline and luxury sensuousness was the predominant factor. Whence arises the social danger when courtesans and their dependants rule the State and finally encompass its ruin.
History shows that great (states) men have often been the slaves of women in consequence of the neuropathic conditions of their constitution.
It shows a masterly psychological knowledge of human nature that the Eoman Catholic Church enjoins celibacy upon its priests in order to emancipate them from sensu- ality, and to concentrate their entire activity in the pursuit of their calling. Nevertheless it is a pity that the celibate state deprives the priest of the ennobling influence exer- cised by love and marital life upon the character.
From the fact that by nature man plays the aggressive role in sexual life, he is exposed to the danger of over- stepping the limits set by law and morality.
The unfaithfulness of the wife, as compared with that of the husband, is morally of much wider bearing, and should always meet with severer punishment at the hands of the law. The unfaithful wife not only dishon- ours herself, but also her husband and her family, not to speak of the possible uncertainty of paternity.
Natural instincts and social position are frequent causes of disloyalty in man (the husband), whilst the wife is surrounded by many protecting influences.
Sexual intercourse is of different import to the spinster
16
PSYCHOPATHIA SEXTTALIS.
and to the bachelor. Society claims of the latter modesty, but exacts of the former chastity as well. Modem civil- isation concedes only to the wife that exalted position, in which woman sexually furthers the moral interests of society.
The ultimate aim, the ideal, of woman, even when she is dragged in the mire of vice, ever is and will be marriage. Woman, as Mantcgazza properly observes, seeks not only gratification of sensual desires, but also protection and support for herself and lier offspring. No matter how sensual man may be, unless also thoroughly depraved, he seeks for a consort only that woman whose chastity he cannot doubt.
The emblem and ornament of woman aspiring to this state, truly worthy of herself, is modesty, so beautifully defined by Mantegazza as ^^one of the forms of physical self-esteem.”
To discuss here the evolution of this, the most graceful of virtues in woman, is out of place, but most likely it is an outgrow^th of the gradual rise of civilisation.
A remarkable contrast may be found in the occasional exposure of physical charms, conventionally sanctioned by the world of fashion, in which even the most discreet maiden will indulge when robed for the ball-room, theatre, or similar social function. Although the reasons for such a display are obvious, the modest woman is fortunately no more conscious of them, than of the motives which imderlie periodical fashions that bring certain forms of the body into undue prominence, to say nothing of corsets, etc.
In all times, and among all races, the w^omcn are fond of toilet and finery. In the animal kingdom nature has distinguished the male with the greater beauty. Mon designate women as the beautiful sex, a gallantry which clearly arises from their sensual requirements. So long as woman seeks only self-gratification in personal adorn- ment, and so long as she remains unconscious of the psy- chological reasons for thus making herself attractive, no
A SYSTEM OF PSYCHOIiOGY OF SEXUAL LIFE 17
objection can be raised against it, but when done with the fixed purpose to please men it degenerates into co- quetry.
Under analogous circumstances man would make him- self ridiculous.
Woman far surpasses man in the natural psychology of love, partly because evolution and training have made love her proper element, and partly because she is ani- mated by more refined feelings {Mantegazza) .
Even the best of breeding concedes to man that he looks upon woman mainly as a means by which to satisfy the cravings of his natural instinct, though it confinei* him only to the woman of his choice. Thus civilisation establishes a binding social contract which is called mar- riage, and grants by legal statutes protection and support to the wife and her issue.
It is important, and on account of certain pathological manifestations (to be referred to later on) indispensable, to examine into those psychological events which draw man and woman into that close union which concentrates the fulness of affection upon the beloved one only to the ex- clusion of all other persons of the same sex.
If one could demonstrate design in the processes of nature — adaptation cannot be denied them — then the fact of fascination by one person of the opposite sex wfith in- difference towards all others, as it occurs between true and happy lovers, would appear as a wonderful provision to ensure monogamy for the promotion of its object.
The scientific observer finds in this loving bond of hearts by no means simply a mystery of souls, but he can refer it nearly always to certain physical or mental pecu- liarities by which the attracting power is qualified.
TTence the words fetich and fetichism. The word fetich signifies an object, or parts or attributes of objects, Avhich by virtue of association To sentiment, personality, or absorbing ideas, exert a charm (the Portuguese ‘^fetisso’^i or at least produce a peculiar individual impression which
18
PSYCHOPATHIA SEXTJAXIS.
is in no wise connected with the external appearance of the sign, symbol or fetich.^
The individual valuation of the fetich extending even to unreasoning enthusiasm is called fetichism. This in- teresting psychological phenomenon may be explained by an empirical law of association, Le., the relation existing between the notion itself and the parts thereof which are essentially active in the production of pleasurable emotions. It is most commonly found in religious and erotic spheres. Religious fetichism finds its original motive in the delusion that its object, i,e., the idol, is not a mere symbol, but possesses divine attributes, and ascribes to it peculiar wonder-working (relics) or protective (amulets) virtues.
Erotic fetichism makes an idol of physical or mental qualities of a person or even merely of objects used by that person, etc., because they awaken mighty associations with the beloved person, thus originating strong emotions of sexual pleasure. Analogies with religious fetichism are always discernible; for, in the latter, the most in- significant objects (hair, nails, bones, etc.) become at times fetiches which produce feelings of delight and even ecstasy.
The germ of sexual love is probably to be found in tlie individual charm (fetich) with w^hich persons of opposite sex sway each other.
The case is simple enough when the sight of a person of the opposite sex occurs simultaneously with sexual excitement, whereby the latter is intensified.
Emotional and optical impressions combine and are BO deeply embedded in the mind that a recurring sensation awakens the visual memory and causes renewed sexual excitement, even orgasm and pollution (often only in dreams), in which case the physical appearance acts as a fetich.
Binet, inter alia, contends that mere peculiarities,
Hjf, Maw MUller who derives the word fetich etymological] j from factitiut, i artificial, insignificant.
A SYSTEM OF PSYCHOLOGY OF SEXUAL LIFE. 19
whether physical or mental, may have the effect of the fetich, if their perception coincides with sexual emotion.
Experience shows that chance controls in a large measure this mental association, that the nature of the fetich varies with the personality of the individual, thus arousing the oddest sympathies or antipathies.
These physiological facts of fetichism often account for the affections that suddenly arise between man and woman, the preference of a certain person to all others of the same sex. Since the fetich assumes the form of a distinctive mark it is clear that its effect can only be of an individual character. Being accentuated by the strongest feelings of pleasure, it follows, that existing faults in the beloved are overlooked (‘^Love is blind^’) and an infatuation is produced which appears incomprehensible or silly to others. Thus it happens that the devoted lover who worships and invests his love wdth qualities which in reality do not exist, is looked upon by others simply as mad. Tlius love exhibits itself now as a mere passion, now as a pronounced psychical anomaly which attains what seemed impossible, renders the ugly beautiful, the profane sublime, and obliterates all consciousness of existing duties tow’ards others.
Tarde (^‘Archives de TAnthropologie Criminelle,” vol. v., No. 30) argues that the type of this fetich (ism) varies with persons as well as wdth nations, but that the ideal of beauty remains the same among civilised peoples of the same era.
Binet has more thoroughly analysed and studied this feticJiism of love.
From it springs the particular choice for slender or plump forms, for blondes or brunettes, for particular form or colour of the eyes, tone of the voice, odour of the hair or body (even artificial perfume), shape of the hand, foot or ear, etc., which constitute the individual charm, the first link in a complicated chain of mental processes, all converging in that one focus, love, i,e., the physical and mental possession of the beloved.
^0
PSYCHOPATHIA SEXUALIS.
This fact establishes the existence of physiological fetichism.
Without showing a pathological condition the fetich may exercise its power so long as its leading qualities represent the integral parts, and so long as the love en- gendered by it comprises the entire mental and physical personality.
^^Normal love appears to us as a symphony of tones Max Dessoir (pseudonym Ludwig Brunn)^ in an article “The Fetichism of Love,’’ cleverly says: —
“Normal love appears to us as a symphony of tones of all kinds. It is roused by the most varied agencies. It is, so to speak, poh^theistic. Fetichism recognises only the tone-colour of a single instrument; it issues forth from a single motive ; it is monotheistic.”
Even moderate thought will carry the conviction that the term real love (so often misused) can only apply where the entire person of the beloved becomes the phy- sical and mental object of veneration.
Of course, there is always a sensual element in love, i.e., the desire to enjoy the full possession of the beloved object, and, in union with it, to fulfil the laws of nature.
But where the body of the beloved person is made the sole object of love, or if sexual pleasure only is sought without regard to the communion of soul and mind, true love does not exist. Neither is it found among the disciples of Plato, who love the soul only and despise sexual en- joyment. In the one case the body is the fetich, in the other the soul, and love is fetichism.
Instances such as these represent simply transitions to pathological fetichism.
This assumption is enhanced by another criterion of true love, viz., the mental satisfaction derived from the sexual act.^
Deutsches Montagsblatt ” Berlin, 20, 8, 80.
^ Magna n* 8 ‘‘spinal c-^r^bral ])ost<iri<‘ur ** who finds gratification with any sort of woman, is only animated by lust. Meretricious love that is purchased cannot be genuine (Mnntegazza) . Wlioever coined the adage : “ Sublata lucema nullum discrimen inter feminaa ” was
A SYSTEM OF PSYCHOLOGY OF SEXUAL LIFE. 21
A striking phenomenon in fetichism is that among the many things which may serve as fetiches there are some which gain that significance more commonly than others; for instance, the hair^ the hand, the foot of woman, or the expression of the eye. This is important in the pathology of fetichism.
Woman certainly seems to be more or less conscious of these facts. For she devotes great attention to her hair and often spends an unreasonable amount of time and money upon its cultivation. How carefully the mother looks after her little daughter's hair! What an important part the hairdresser plays! The falling out of the hair causes despair to many a young lady. The author remembers the case of a vain woman who fell into melancholia on account of this trouble, and finally committed suicide. A favourite subject of conversation among ladies is coiffures. They are envious of each other’s luxuriant tresses.
Beautiful hair is a mighty fetich with many men. In the legend of the Lorelei, who lured men to destruction, the ^%olden hair” which she combs with a golden comb appears as a fetich. Frequently the hand or the foot possesses an attractiveness no less powerful ; but in these instances masochistic and sadistic feelings often — ^though
a cynic, indeed. The power to perform love’s act is by no means a guarantee of the noblest enjoyment of love.
There are urnings who are potent for w^omen — men who do not love their wives, but are nevertheless able to perform the marital “ duty In the majority of these cases even lustful pleasure is ab- sent; for it is simply an onanistic act rendered possible by the aid of imagination which substitutes another beloved being. This decep- tion may, indeed, superinduce sexual pleasure, but, rudimentary gratification as it is, it can only arise from a psychic trick, just as in solitary onanism voluptuous satisfaction is obtained chiefly with the assistance of fancy. As a matter of fact that degree of orgasm which completes the lustful act is entirely dependent upon the inter- vention of fancy.
Where psychic impediments exist (such as indifference, disgust, aversion, fear of contagion or impregnation, etc. ) the feeling of sexual gratification aeems to be wanting altogether.
22
PSTCHOPATHIA SEXUALIS.
not always — assist in determining the peculiar kind of fetich.
By a transference through association of ideas, gloves or shoes obtain the significance of a fetich.
Max Dessoir (op, cit,) points out that among the cus- toms of the middle ages drinking from the shoe of a beautiful woman (still to be found in Poland) played a remarkable part in gallantry and homage. The shoe also plays an important role in the legend of Aschenbrodel.
The expression of the eye is particularly important as a means of kindling the spark of love. A neuropathic eye frequently affects persons of either sex as a fetich. “Madame, vos beaux yeux me font mourir d’amoiir.” (Moliere),
There are many examples showing that odours of the body become fetiches.
This fact is taken advantage of in the “Ars amandi’^ by woman either consciously or unconsciously. Eutli sought to attract Boaz by perfuming herself. The demi- monde of ancient and modern times is noted for its lavish use of strong scents. Jdger, in his “Discovery of the Soul,’’ calls attention to many olfactory sympathies.
Cases are knovui where men have married ugly women solely because their personal odours were exceedingly pleasing.
Binet makes it probable that the voice also may act as A fetich.
Belot in his novel “Les baigneuses de Trouville” makes the same assertion. Binet thinks that many marriages with singers are due to the fetich of their voices. He also observes that among the singing birds the voice has the same sexual significance as odours among the quadrupeds. The birds allure by their song, and the male that sings most beautifully is joined at night by the charmed mate.
The pathological facts of masochism and sadism show that mental peculiarities may also act as fetiches but in a wider sense.
A SYSTEM OP PSYCHOLOGY OP SEXUAL LIPE.
23
Thus the fact of idiosyncrasies is explained, and the old proverb gustihus non est disputandum’’ retains its force.
With regard to fetichism in woman, science must at least for the present time be content with mere con- jectures. This much seems to be certain, that being a physiological factor, its effects are analogous to those in men, i.e,, producing sexual sympathies towards persons of the same sex.
Details will come to our knowledge only when medical women enter into the study of this subject.
We may take it for granted that the physical as well as the mental qualities of man assume the form of the female fetich. In most cases, no doubt, physical attributes in the male exercise this power without regard to the existence of conscious sensuality. On the other hand it will be found that the mental superiority of man con- stitutes the attractive power where physical beauty is Avanting. In the upper ‘^strata^^ of society this is more apparent, even if Ave disregard the enormous influence exercised by ‘‘blue blood’’ and high breeding. The possibility that superior intellectual dcA^elopment favours advancement in social position, and opens the Avay to a brilliant career, does not seem to Aveigh heavily in the balance of judgment.
The fetichism of body and mind is of importance in progeneration ; it favours the selection of the fittest and the transmission of ])hysical and mental Aurtues.
Generally speaking the folloAAung masculine qualities impose on Avoman, viz., physical strength, courage, nobility of mind, chiA^alry, self-confidence, eA’^en self-assertion, inso- lence, braA^ado, and a conscious show of mastery over the Aveaker sex.
A “Don Juan” impresses many women and elicits admiration, for he establishes the proof of his virile powers, although the inexperienced maiden can in no wise suspect the many risks of lues and chronic urethritis she runs from a marital union with this otherwise interesting rake*
u
PSTCHOPATHIA SEXXTALIS.
The successful actor, musician, or vocal artiste, the circus rider, the athlete, and even the criminal, often fasci- nate the bread and butter miss as well as the maturer woman. At any rate women rave over them, and inun- date them with love letters.
It is a well-known fact that the female heart has pre- dominant w’eakness for military uniforms, that of the cavalry-man ever having the preference.
The hair of man, especially the beard, the emblem of vdrility, the secondary symbol of generative power — is a predominant fetich with woman. In the measure in which women bestow special care upon the cultivation of their hair, men who seek to attract and please women, cultivate the elegant growth of the beard, and especially that of the moustache.
The eye as well as the voice exert the same charm. Singers of renown easily touch woman’s heart. They are overwhelmed with love letters and offers of marriage. Tenors have a decided advantage.
Binet {op. cit.) refers to an observation of this charac- ter made by Dumas in his novel “La maison du vent”. A woman who falls in love with a tenor-voice loses her virtue.
The author has thus far not succeeded in obtaining facts with regard to pathological fetichism in woman.
II. PHYSIOLOGICAL FACTS.
Dtjeing the time of the physiological processes in the reproductive glands, desires arise in the consciousness of the individual, Aviiich have for their purpose the perpetua- tion of the species (sexual instinct).
Sexual desire during the years of sexual maturity is a physiological law. The duration of the physiological pro- cesses in the sexual organs, as well as the strength of the sexual desire manifested, vary, both in individuals and in races. Kace, climate, heredity and social circumstances have a very decided influence upon it. The greater sensu- ality of southern races as compared with the sexual needs of those of the north is well known. Sexual development in the inhabitants of tropical climes takes place much earlier than in those of more northern regions. In women of northern countries ovulation, recognisable in the de- velopment of the body and the occurrence of a periodical flow of blood from the genitals (menstruation), usually begins about the thirteenth to the fifteenth year; in men puberty, recognisable in the deepening of the voice, the appearance of hair on the face and mons veneris, and the occasional occurrence of pollutions, etc., takes place about the fifteenth year. In the inhabitants of tropical countries, however, sexual development obtains several years earlier in women — sometimes as early as the eighth year.
It is worthy of remark that girls who live in cities develop about a year earlier than girls living in the country, and that the larger the town the earlier, ceteris paribus, the development takes place.
Heredity, however, has no small influence on libido and sexual power. Thus there are families in which,
(25)
26
PSYCHOPATIIIA SEXUALIS.
with great physical strength and longevity, great libido and virility are preserved until a great age, while in othei’ families the vita sexualis develops late and is early ex- tinguished.
In woman the period of activity of the reproductive glands is shorter than in man, in whom sexual power may last until a great age; ovulation ceases about thirty years after puberty. The period of waning activity of the ovaries is called the change of life {climacterium, meno^ pause). This biological phase does not represent merely a cessation of functional potency and final atrophy of the reproductive organs, but a transformation of the whole organism.
In Middle Europe the sexual maturity of man begins about the eighteenth year, and virility reaches its acme at forty. After that age it slowly declines. The potentia generandi ceases usuall^^ at the age of sixty-two, but po- teniia coeundi may be present much longer.
The existence of the sexual instinct is continuous during the time of sexual life, but it varies in intensity. Under physiological conditions it is never periodical in the human male, as it is in animals; it manifests an organic variation of intensity in consonance with the collection and expenditure of semen. In women the degree of sexual desire coincides with the process of o\uilation in such a way that libido sexualis is intensified after the menstrual period.
Sexual instinct — as emotion, idea and impulse — is a function of the cerebral cortex. Thus far no definite region of the cortex has been proved to be exclusively the seat of sexual sensations and impulses. This psycho- sexual centre is nothing more than a junction and crossing of principal paths w’hich lead on the one hand to the sensi- tive motor apparatus of the sexual organs, and on the other hand to those nerve centres of the visual and olfactory organs which are the carriers of that consciousness '^^hich distinguishes between the ^^male’’ and the “female”.
Owing to the close relations which exist between ihft
PHYSIOLOGICAL PACTS.
2r»
sexual instinct and the olfactory sense/ it is to be pre- sumed that the sexual and olfactory centres lie close together in the cerebral cortex. The development of sexual life has its beginning in the organic sensations which arise from the maturing reproductive glands. These excite the attention of the individual. Reading and the experiences of every-day life (which, unfortunately, are now-a-days too early and too frequently suggestive), con- vert these notions into clear ideas, which are accentuated by organic sensations of a pleasurable character. With this accentuation of erotic ideas through lustful feelings, an impulse to induce them is developed (sexual desire).
Thus there is established a mutual dependence between the cerebral cortex (as the place of origin of sensations and ideas), and the reproductive organs. The latter, by reason of physiological processes (hyperemia, secretion of semen, ovulation), give rise to sexual ideas, images, and impulses.
The cerebral cortex, by means of preconceived or re- produced sensual ideas, reacts on the reproductive organs, including hypcrgemia, production of semen, erection, ejacu- lation. This is effected by means of centres for vasomotor inervation and ejaculation, which are situated in the lumbar regions of the cord, and lie close together. Both are reflex centres.
The centre of erection (Goltz, Echliard) is an inter- mediate station placed between the brain and the genital apparatus. The nervous paths which connect it with the brain probably run through tlie pcdunculi cerebri and the pons. This centre may be excited by central (psychical and organic) stimuli, by direct irritation of the nerve-tract in the pedunculis cerebri, pons, or cervical portion of the cord, as well as by peripheral irritation of the sensory
‘The olfactory centre is presumed by Ferrier (“Functions of the Brain”) to be in the. re^rion of the gyrus uncinatus. Zuckerkandl (“Ueber das Riechccntnim,” 1887), from researches in comparative anatomy, concludes that the olfactory centre has its seat in the pocampus major.
38
PSYOHOPATHIA SEXTTALIS.
nerves (penis, clitoris and annexa). It is not directly snV ordinated to the will.
The excitation of this centre is conveyed to the corpora cavernosa by means of nerves (nervi erigentes — Eckhard) running into the first three sacral nerves.
The action of the nervi erigentes, which renders erec- tion possible, is inhibitory in so far as it inhibits the ganglionic nervous mechanism in the corpora cavernosa, upon the action of which the smooth muscle-fibres of the corpora cavernosa are dependent (Kdlliker and Kohl- rausch). Under the influence of the action of the nervi erigentes, these fibres of the corpora cavernosa become re- laxed, and their spaces fill with blood. Simultaneously, as a result of the dilatation of the capillary net-work of the corpora cavernosa, pressure is exerted upon the veins of the penis and the return of blood is impeded. This effect is aided by the contraction of the hulbo cavemosus and erector penis muscles, which extend by means of an aponeurosis over the dorsal surface of the penis.
The erection-centre is imder the influence of both exciting and inhibitory innervation arising from the cere- brum. Ideas and sense-perceptions of sexual content have an exciting effect. According to observations made on men that have been hung, it is evident that the erection-centre may also be aroused by excitation of the tract of the spinal cord. Observations on the insane and those suffering with cerebral disease show that this is also possible as a result of organic irritation in the cerebral cortex (psycho-sexual centre?). Spinal diseases (tabes, especially myelitis) affecting the lumbar portion' of the cord, in their earlier stages, may directly excite the erection-centre.
Reflex excitation of the centre is possible and frequent in the following ways: by irritation of the (peripheral)
^Later researches by MUller (Klin, il experiment. Studien, etc, Deutsche Zeitschr. f. N. heilkunde xxi.) seem to render it more prob- able that the centre of erection does not lie in the conus medullaris of the spinal cord, but rather in the sacral ganglia, thus constituting a sympathetic reflem.
PHTSIOLOaiCAL FACTS,
29
sensory nerves of the genitals and surrounding parts by friction; by irritation of the uretha (gonorrhoea), of the rectum (hsemorrhoids, oxyuris), of the bladder (distension with urine, especially in the morning; irritation of cal- culi) ; by distension of the vesiculse seminales with semen; by hypersemia of the genitals, occasioned by lying on the back and thus inducing pressure of the intestines upon the blood-vessels of the pelvis.
The erection-centre may also be excited by irritation of the nervous ganglia which are so abundant in the prostatic tissue (prostatitis, introduction of catheter, etc.).
The experiment of Goltz, according to whom, when (in dogs) the lumbar portion of the cord is severed, erection is more easily induced, shows that the erection- centre is also subject to inhibitory influences from the brain.
In men the fact that will-power and emotions, (fear of unsuccessful coitus, surprise inter actum sex- udlem, etc.) may inhibit the occurrence of erection, and cause it, when present, to disappear, also indicates this.
The duration of erection is dependent upon the dura- tion of its exciting causes (sensory stimuli), the absence of inhibitory influences, the nervous energy of the centre, and the early or late occurrence of ejaculation (v. infra).
The central point of the sexual mechanism is the cere- bral cortex. It is justifiable to presume that there is a definite region of the cortex (cerebral centre), which gives rise to sexual feelings, ideas and impulses, and is the place of origin of the psycho-somatic processes which we desig- nate as sexual life, sexual instinct, and sexual desire. ^ This centre is susceptible to both central and peripheral stimuli.
Central stimuli, in the form of organic excitation, may be due to diseases of the cerebral cortex. Physiologically they are dominated by psychical impressions (memory and sensory perceptions, lascivious stories, touch, pressure ot the h^d, kiss, etc.)- Auditory and olfactory perceptions certainly play but a very subordinate role. Under patho-
so
PSYOHOPATHIA SEXUALIS.
logical conditions (v. infra) ^ the latter have a very decided influence in inducing sexual excitement.^
In beasts the influence of olfactory perception on the sexual sense is unmistakable. AUhaus (^‘Beitrage zur Physiol, und Pathol, des Olfactorius,” “Archiv fiir Psych.” xii., H. 1) declares that the sense of smell is important with reference to the reproduction of the species. He shows that animals of opposite sexes are drawn to each other by means of olfactory perception, and that almost all animals, at the time of rutting, emit a specially distinct odour from their genitals. An experiment by Schiff is confirmatory of this. He extirpated the olfactory nerves in puppies, and found that, as the animals grew up, the male was unable to distinguish the female. Again, an experiment by Mantegazza (^^Hygiene of Love”), who re- moved the eyes of rabbits and found that the defect con- stituted no obstacle to procreation, shows how important in animals the olfactory sense is for the vita sexualis.
It is also remarkable that many animals (musk-ox, civet-cat, beaver), possess on their sexual organs, glands which secrete substances having a very strong odour.
AUhaus also shows that in man there are certain re- lations existing between the olfactory and sexual senses. He mentions Cloquet (‘^Osphresiologie,” Paris, 1826), who calls attention to the sensual pleasure excited by the odour of flowers, and tells how Richelieu lived in an atmosphere laden with the heaviest perfumes, in order to excite his sexual functions.
Zippe (‘^Wien. Med. Wochenschrift,” 1879, No. 24), in connection with a case of kleptomania in an onanist, likewise establishes such relations, and cites Hildebrand as authority, who in his popular physiology says: ^‘It can- not be doubted that the olfactory sense stands in remote
^Cf. Albert Hagen, "Die sexuelle Oaphresiologie,*' Charlotten- burg, 1901 (Verlag H. Basdorf), a most interesting monograph on the relations between the olfactory senses and odours and the sexual acts in man. Albert Moll, " Untersuchungen tiber libido sexualis/* p. 377. (Literature and studies on the olfaotoiy sense as a stimu- lating cause of the sexual instinct.)
PHYSIOLOGICAL FACTS.
31
connection with the sexual apparatus. Odours of flowers often occasion pleasurable sensual feelings, and when one remembers the passage in the ^Song of Solomon,’ ^And my hands dropped with myrrh, and my fingers with sweet- smelling myrrh, upon the handles of the lock,’ one finds that it did not escape Solomon’s observation. In the Orient the pleasant perfumes are esteemed for their relation to the sexual organs, and the women’s apartments of the Sul- tan are redolent with the fragrance of flowers.”
Most, professor in Kostock (c/. Zippe), relates: “I learned from a sensual young peasant that he had excited many a chaste girl sexually, and easily gained his end, by carrying his handkerchief in his axilla for a time, while dancing, and then wiping his partner’s perspiring face with it.”
The case of Henry III. shows that contact with a person’s perspiration may be the exciting cause of passion- ate love. At the betrothal feast of the King of Navarre and Margaret of Valois, he accidentally* dried his face with a garment of Maria of Cleves, which was moist with her perspiration. Although she was the bride of the Prince of Conde, Henry conceived immediately such a passionate love for her that he could not resist it, and made her, as history shows, very unhappy. An analogous instance is related of Henry IV., whose passion for the beautiful Gabriel is said to have originated at the instant when, at a ball, he wiped his brow with her handkerchief.
Professor Jdcfcr, the ^^discoverer of the soul, refers to the same thing in his well-known book (2nd. ed., 1880, chap. XV., p. 173) ; for he regards the sweat as important in the production of sexual effects, and as being especially
seductive.^
One learns from reading the work of Floss (“Das Weib”), that attempts to attract a person of the opposite sex by means of the perspiration, may be discerned in
many forms in popular psychology.
•See also further interesting observations on the aphrodieic ef- fects of sweat on both sexes. FM, I’instmct sexnel. p. 127. (Parta,
1809).
PSYOHOPATHIA SEXtTALIS.
In reference to this, a custom which holds among the natives of the Philippine Islands when they become en- gaged, as reported by Jagor, is remarkable. When it be- comes necessary for an engaged pair to separate, they ex- change articles of wearing-apparel, by means of which each becomes assured of faithfulness. These objects are care- fully preserved, covered with kisses, and smelled.
The love of certain libertines and sensual women for perfumes^ indicates a relation between the olfactory and the sexual senses.
A case mentioned by Heschl (^^Wiener Zeitschrift f. pract. Heilkimde,” 22d March, 1861) is remarkable, where the absence of both olfactory lobes was accompanied by imperfectly developed genitals. It was the case of a man aged forty-five, in all respects well developed, with the exception of the testicles, Avhich were not larger than beans and contained no seminal canals, and the larjmx, which seemed to be of feminine dimensions. Every trace of olfactory nerves was wanting, and the trigona olfactoria and the furrow on the under surface of the anterior lobes 'were absent. The perforations of the ethmoid plate were sparingly present, and occupied by nerveless processes of the dura instead of by nerves. In the mucous membrane of the nose there was also an absence of nerves.
Finally, the clearly defined relation of the olfactory and sexual senses in mental diseases is worthy of notice, ,for in the psychoses of both sexes superinduced by mas- turbation, as w^ell as in insanity due to disease of the female organs, or during the climacterium, olfactory hal- lucinations are especially frequent, while in cases where a sexual cause is wanting they are very infrequent.
I am inclined to doubt® that, under normal conditions, olfactory impressions in man, as in animals, play an im- portant role in the excitation of tlie sexual centre. On
^Cf. haycock^ who (** Nervous Diseases of Women,” 1840) found that in women the love for musk and similar perfumes was related to sexual excitement.
*The following case, reported by Binet^ seems to be in opposition to this idea. Unfortunately nothing is said concerning the mental
PHYSIOLOGICAL PACTS.
33
accotint of the importance of this consensm for the under- standing of pathological cases, it is necessary here to thor- oughly consider the relations existing between the olfactory and sexual senses.
With reference to these physiological relations it may be mentioned as an interesting fact that there exists a cer- tain histological conformity between the nose and the genitals, for both have eeectile tissue (likewise the nipple).
Interesting physiological and clinical observations by J. N. Mackenzie may be found in the ‘^Journal of Medical Science,” April, 1884. He finds: (1) that in certain women with normal olfactory organs regularly with men^ struation a swelling of the erectile tissue of the nose oc- curs which disappears again with the flooding; (2) that menstruation is at times replaced by epistaxis, which dis- appears when the uterine flow begins, but in some cases always recurs with the menstrual functions; (3) irrita- tions of the nasal organs such as violent sneezing, etc., oc- cur at the time of sexual excitement; (4) Stimulation of the genital tracts is occasioned by affections of the nasal
organs
He also observes that nasal affections in women grow worse during the time of menstruation; that venereal ex- cesses produce inflammation of the Schneiderian mem- brane, or intensify it where it already exists.
He also points out that masturbators very frequently suffer from nasal disease, are troubled with abnormal sen- sations of olfaction, and are subject to epistaxis. Accord- ing to his experience there are affections of the nose which stubbornly resist all treatment until the concomitant (and causal) genital disease is removed.
characteristics of the person. In any event it
tory of the relations existing between the olfactory and sexual
D.’, a medical student, was seated on a bench in a public park, reading a book (on pathology). Suddenly a violent turbed him He looked up and noticed that a lady, r^ol^t wi^ X^rW had uLn a seat upon the other end of the ^tribute the erection to nothing but the unconacioua olfa/jtory pression made upon him. 3
84
PSYCHOPATHIA BEXUALIS.
Other interesting observations and elucidations about the consensus narium et genitalium may be found in a book by Fliess recentlj published : ^^Die Beziehungen zwischen J^ase und weiblichen Geschlechtsorganen/^ Vienna (Deut- icke), 1897. — Cerviset, contribut. a Tctude du tisses erec- tile des fosses nasales. These de Lyon 1887. Joal, revue mensuelle de laryngologie 1888 Fevr. — Peyer, Miinch. med. Wochenschr, 1889. 4; — Eudriss, Dissertat., Wurz-
burg 1892.
The sexual sphere of the cerebral cortex may be ex- cited, in the sense of an excitation of sexual concepts and impulses, by processes in the generative organs. This is possible as a result of all conditions which excite the erec- tion-centre by means of centripetal influence (stimulus resulting from distension of the seminal vesicles ; enlarged Graaflan follicles ; any sensory stimulus, however produced, about the genitals; hyperaemia and turgescence of the genitals, especially of the erectile tissue of the corpus cavemosum of the penis and clitoris, as a result of lux- urious, sedentary life ; plethora abdominalis, high external temperature, warm beds, clothing; taking of cantharides, pepper and other spices).
Libido sexualis may also be induced by stimulation of the gluteal region (castigation, whipping).^
This fact is important for the proper understanding of certain pathological manifestations. It sometimes happens that in boys the first excitation of the sexual instinct is caused by a spanking, and they are thus incited to mas- turbation. This should be remembered by those who have the care of children.
On account of the dangers to which this form of pun- ishment of children gives rise, it would be better if parents, teachers and nurses were to avoid it entirely.
Passive ‘flagellation may excite sensuality, as is shown
"De fiagiorum usu in re mcdija,” London, 1765; BoileaUt "The History of the Flagellants,” London, 1783; Doppet, " Aphrodisiaque exteme,” Paris, 1788; Cooper, " Der FlagellaDtismus u. d. Flogellanten ; Bamerif Stock u. Peitsche in xix. Jahrhuiidert (Dohm, Dresden), 2 vols.
i»HTSIOLOGICAL FACTS.
35
by the sects of EsgellantSf^ so widespread in the thirteenth and fifteenth centuries. They were accustomed to whip themselves, partly as an atonement and partly to mortify the flesh (in accordance with the principle of chastity pro- mulgated by the Church — i. e., the emancipation of the soul from sensuality).
These sects were at first favoured by the Church ; but, since sensuality was only the more excited by flagellation, and this fact became apparent in unpleasant occurrences, the Church was finally compelled to oppose it. The fol- lowing facts from the lives of the two heroines of flagella- tion, Maria Magdalena of Pazzi and Elizabeth of Genton, clearly show the significance of flagellation as a sexual ex- citant. The former, the daughter of distinguished parents, was a Carmelite nun in Florence (about 1580), and, by her flagellations, and still more through the results obtained by them, she became quite celebrated, and is mentioned in the ^‘Annals’’. It was her greatest delight to have her hands bound by the prioress behind her back, and her naked loins whipped in the presence of the assembled sisters.
But the whippings, continued from her earliest youth, quite destroyed her nervous system, and, perhaps, no other heroine of flagellation had so many hallucinations ('^Ent- ziickungen’’). While being whipped her thoughts were of love. The inner fire threatened to consume her, and she frequently cried, ^^Enough! Fan no longer the flame that consumes me. This is not the death I long for; it comes with all too much pleasure and delight.” Thus it con- tinued. But the spirit of impurity wove the most sensual lascivious fancies, and she was several times near losing her chastity.
It was the same with Elizabeth of Genton. As a result of whipping she actually passed into a state of bacchanalian madness. As a rule, she raved when, excited by unusual
^Corvin, Hist. Denkniale des christlichen Fanatismus, H,, Leip- zig, 1847; Foeratema/nn, Die christlichen Geisslergesellsehaften, Halle, 1828.
86
PSYCHOPATHIA SEXUALIS.
dagellation, she believed herself united with her ^^idea^^ This condition was so exquisitely pleasant to her that she would frequently cry out, love, O eternal love, O love, 0 you creatures ! cry out with me : Tove, Love !’
It is known, on the authority of Taxil (op. cit., p. 175), that rakes sometimes have themselves flagellated, or pricked imtil blood flows, just before the sexual act, in order to stimulate their diminished sexual power.
These facts find an interesting confirmation in the following experiences, taken from Paullinis ‘‘Flagellum Salutis” (1st ed., 1698; reprint, Stuttgart, 1847) : —
“There are some nations, viz., the Persians and Eus- sians, where the women regard blows as a peculiar sign of love and favour. Strangely enough, the Russian women are never more pleased and delighted than when they re- ceive hard blows from their husbands, as John Barclarus relates in a remarkable narrative. A German, named Jordan, went to Russia, and, pleased with the country, settled there and took a Russian wife, whom he loved dearly, and to whom he was always kind in everything. But she always wore an expression of dissatisfactioA, and went about with sighs and downcast eyes. The husband asked the reason, for he could not understand what was wrong. ‘Aye,’ she said, ‘though you love me, you do not show me any sign of it.’ He embraced her, and begged to be told what he had carelessly and unconsciously done to hurt her feelings, and to be forgiven, for he would never do it again. ‘I want nothing,’ was the answer, ‘but what is customary in our country — ^the whip, the real sign of love.’ When Jordan adopted the custom his wife began to love him dearly.
Similar stories are told by Peier Peireus, of Erlesund, who adds that husbands, immediately after the w^edding, among other indispensable household articles, provide themselves with a whip.”
On page 73 of this remarkable book, the author says further: “The celebrated Count of Mirandula, John Picus, relates of one of his intimate acquaintances that he was
PHYSIOLOGICAL PACTS.
87
an insatiable fellow, but so lazy and incapable of love that he was practically impotent until he had been roughly handled. The more he tried to satisfy his desire, the heavier the blows he needed, and he could not attain his desire, unless he had been whipped till the blood came. For this purpose he had a suitable whip made, which was placed in vinegar the day before using it. He would give this to his companion, and on bended knees beg her not to spare him, but to strike blows with it, the heavier the better. The good count thought this singular man found the pleasure of love in this punishment. Not being a bad man in other respects he understood and hated his weak- ness.’’
Coelius Rhodigin relates a similar story, as does also the celebrated jurist, Andreas TiraquelL In the time of the skilful physician, Otten Brunfelsen, there lived in Munich, then the capital of the Bavarian electorate, a de- bauchee who could never perform his (sexual) duties with- out a severe preparatory beating. Thomas Barthelin knew a Venetian, who had to be beaten and driven before he could have intercourse, just as reluctant Cupid was driven by his followers with sprays of hyacinths. A few years ago there was in Liibeck a cheesemonger, living on Mill Street, who, on a complaint to the authorities of unfaith- fulness, was ordered to leave the city. The prostitute with whom he had been, went to the judges and begged on his behalf, telling how difficult all intercourse had become for him. He could do nothing until he had been mercilessly beaten. At first the fellow, from shame and to avoid dis- grace, would not confess, but after earnest questioning he could not deny it. There is said to have been a man in the Netherlands who was similarly incapable, and could do nothing without blows. On the decree of the authori- ties, however, he was not only removed from his position, but also severely punished. A reliable friend, a physician in an important city of the kingdom, related to me how a woman of bad character had told a companion, who had been in the hospital a short time before, that she, with
38
PSYCHOPATHIA SEXUALIS,
another woman of like character, had been sent to the woods by a man who followed them there, cut rods for them, and then exposed his naked buttocks, commanded them to belabour him well. They obeyed, and it is easy to conjecture what he then did with them. Not only men have thus been excited and inflamed to lasciviousness, but also women, that they too might experience greater in- tensity of pleasure.^ Por this reason the Eoman woman had herself whipped and beaten by the lupercis. Thus Juvenal writes : —
“ Steriles moriuntur, et illis Turgida non prodest condita psycido Lyde:
Nec prodest agili palmas prsebere Luperco.”
In men, as well as in women, erection and orgasm, or even ejaculation, may be induced by irritation of various other regions of the skin and mucous membrane. These ^‘hyperaesthetic’’ zones in woman are, while she is a virgin, the clitoris, and, after defloration, the vagina and cervix uteri.
In woman the nipple particularly seems to possess this quality. Titillatio hujus regionis plays an important part in the ars erotica. In his ‘‘Typographical Anatomy,’^ 1865, Bd. i., p. 552, Hyrtl cites Val. Hildenbrandt, who observed a peculiar anomaly of the sexual instinct in a girl, which he called suctusstupraiio. She had her mammas sucked by her lover, and after a while, by constantly pull- ing her nipples, she was enabled to suck them herself, an act that gave her most intense pleasure, Hyrtl also calls attention to the fact that cows sometimes suck the milk from their own udders. L. Brunn (“Zeitg. f. Literatur,^^ etc., d. Hamburg, Correspondent, 1889, No. 21), in an in- teresting article on “Sensuality and Love of Kin,’^ points vut how zealously the nursing mother gives herself to the uursing of the babe, “for love of the weak, undeveloped, helpless <being^\
is a common proceeding for blasts and impotents to bare themselves whipped. A few years ago much noise was made about one such amateur who died whilst being whipped by several woman in a house of prostitution at Moscow. (Ihankovo^ Archives d’ An- thropoL ariminelle. xiv. p. 097)t
PHYSIOLOGICAL FACTS.
It is easy to assume that, by the side of the ethical motives, the fact that the sucking may be attended by feelings of physical pleasure plays a part. The remark of Brunn, although correct in itself, but one-sided, that, ac- cording to Houzeau^s experience, among the majority of animals the relations between mother and offspring are close only during the time of nursing, and thereafter in- different, also speaks in favour of this assumption.
Bastian found the same thing (blunting of the feeling for the offspring after weaning) among savages.
Under pathological conditions, as is shown by Chamr hard, among others, in his thesis for the doctorate, other portions of the body (in hysterical persons) about the mammae and genitals may attain the significance of ^^hy- peraesthetic” zones.
In man, physiologically, the only “hyperaesthetic” zone is the glans penis and perhaps the skin of the external genitals.
Under pathological conditions the anus may become a ‘‘hyperaesthetic’’ area. Thus anal automasturbation, which seems to be only too frequent, and passive pederasty would be explained. (Cf. Gamier, Anomalies sexuelles,’’ Paris, p. 514; A. Moll, ‘‘Contrare Sexualempfindung,” 3rd ed., p. 369; Frigerio, ‘^Archivio di Psichiatria,” 1893; Cristiani, ^^Archivio delle Psicopatie sessuali,” p. 182, “au- topederastia in un alienato, affetto da follia periodica”.)
The psycho-physiological process comprehended in the idea of sexual instinct is composed of
(1) concepts awakened centrally or peripherally;
(2) the pleasurable feelings associated with them.
The longing for sexual satisfaction {libido sexualia)
arises from them. This desire grows stronger constantly in proportion as the excitation of the cerebral sphere ac- centuates the feeling of pleasure, by appropriate concep- tions and activity of the imagination; and the pleasurable sensations are increased to lustful feeling by excitation of the erection centre and the consequent hyperaemia of the
40
PSTOHOPATHIA SXZUALtCk
genitals (entrance of liquor prostaticus into the urethra, etc.).
If circumstances favour the satisfactory performance of the sexual act, the ever-increasing desire is gratified ; if, however, conditions are unfavourable, inhibition occurs, checks the central erectile power, and prevents the sexual act
To civilised man the ready presence of ideas which inhibit sexual desire is of distinct import The moral freedom of the individual, and the decision whether, under certain circumstances, excess, and even crime, be committed or not, depend, on the one hand, upon the strength of the instinctive impulses and the accompanying organic sen- sations; on the other, upon the power of the inhibitory ideas. Constitution, and especially organic influences, have a marked effect upon the instinctive impulses ; educa- tion and cultivation of self-control counteract the opposing influences.
The exciting and inhibitory powers are variable quanti- ties. F or instance, over-indulgence in alcohol is very fatal in this respect, since it awakens and increases libido sexu- alis, while at the same time it weakens moral resistance.
Thx Act op Cohabitation.'
The essential condition for the man is sufficient erec- tion. Anjel (‘‘Arch, fiir Psych., viii., H. 2) calls atten- tion to the fact that in sexual excitement not alone the erec- tion centre is influenced but the nervous excitement is dis- tributed over the entire vasomotor system of nerves. The proof of this is the turgescence of the organs in the sexual act, injection of the conjunctiva, prominence of the eye- balls, dilation of the pupils, cardiac palpitation (resulting from paralysis of the vasomotor nerves of the heart, which arise from the cervical sympathetic, and the resulting dila- tion of the cardiac arteries, and the increased stimulation of the cardiac ganglia induced by the consequent hype-
H)f, Rouhwud, ** Traifig de rimpuissaace et de la •tdiilitd.’’ Paria 1878. ^
THB ACT OF COHABITATION.
41
nemia of the cardiac walls). The sexual act is accom* panied by a pleasurable feeling, which, in the male, is evoked by the passage of semen through the ductus ejacur latorii to the urethra, in consequence of the sensory stimula- tion of the genitals. This pleasurable sensation occurs earlier in the male than in the female, grows rapidly in intensity up to the moment of commencing ejaculation, reaches its acme in the instant of free emission, and disap- pears quiddy post ejaculationem.
In the female the pleasurable feeling occurs later and comes on more slowly, and generally outlasts the act of ejaculation.
The distinctive event in coitus is ejaculation. This function is dependent on a centre (genito-spinal), which Budge has shown to he situated at the level of the fourth lumbar vertebra. It is a reflex centre. The stimulus that excites it, is the ejection of semen from the vesiculas semi- nates into the pars membranacea urethr<B, a reflex effect of stimulation of the glans penis. As soon as the collec- tion of semen, with ever-increasing pleasurable sensation, has reached a sufficient amount to be effectual as a stimu- lus of the ejaculation-centre, this centre acts. The reflex motor path lies in the fourth and fifth lumbar nerves. The action consists of a commlsive excitation of the bulho- cavemosus muscle (innervated by the third and fourth
sacral nerves), which forces the semen out.
In the female as well, at the height of sexual and pleasurable excitement, a reflex movement occurs. It is induced by stimulation of the sensory genital nerves and consists of a peristaltic movement in the tubes and uterus as far down as the portio vaginalis, which presses out the mucous secretions of the tubes and uterus. I^ibition of the ejaculation centre is possible as a result of cortical influence (want of desire in coitus, emotions in general,
influence of the will). , x- < *i,«
Under normal conditions, with the completion of the
sexual act, libido sexualis and erection disappear, a^d ™e psychical and sexual excitement gives place to a comfort- able feeling of lassitude.
in. ANTHROPOLOGICAL FACTS.*
iCvERY individual whose sexual development has been in accordance with the normal process, represents physical and metaphysical attributes which, as experience shows, are typical of the sex to which the individual belongs. These sexual characteristics are either primary (sexual glands and organs of propagation) or secondary. The latter are bodily and psychical and are developed only during the period of puberty. Now and then cases of precocious as well as retarded sexual development are reported. As a rule they may be found to be due to abnormal evolutionary conditions in them, chiefly in individuals with a heavy neu- rotic taint.
The secondary sexual characteristics differentiate the two sexes ; they present the specific male and female types. The higher the anthropological development of the race, the stronger these contrasts between man and woman, and vice versa.
Important somatic secondary sexual characteristics are, the skull, skeleton, pelvis (particularly), facial types, hair, larynx (voice), mammae, thighs, etc.
Important psychical characteristics are sexual con- sciousness (i.6., the knowledge of a special sexual indi- viduality as man or woman) and a congruous sexual in- stinct, from both of which a long series of special features and individual peculiarities are evolved, such as psychical dispositions, inclinations, etc.
This differentiation of the sexes and the development of sexual types is evidently the result of an infinite suc-
'Bardach, Die Physiologie ala ErfahrungswisBenschaft, 1826-40; Plots, Das Weib, 1801, 3d edition; A, Moll, Die contrttre Sexualem- pfindung, 3d ed. p. 3; Idem, Unterauchungen tiber die Libido aexualia^ 1867-08.
ANTHEOPOLOGICAL FACTS.
43
cession of intermediary stages of evolution. The primary stage undoubtedly was bi-sexuality, such as still exists in the lowest classes of animal life and also during the first months of foetal existence in man. The type of the present stage of evolution is mono-sexuality, that is to say, a con- gruous development of the secondary bodily and psychical sexual characteristics belonging to the respective sexual glands.
Observation teaches that the pure type of the Tnan or the woman is often enough missed by nature, that is to say that certain secondary male characteristics are found in woman and vice versa, to wit, men with an inclination for female occupations (embroidery, toilet, etc.), and women with a decided predilection for manly sports (without the influencing elements of early education). In both in- stances particular cleverness in the in\erted and pro- nounced awkwardness in the originally proper occupation will be noticed. In this class belong ca^^trates, women with a bass voice (abnormal development oi the larynx), a narrow pelvis, a beard, undevelopment ol the mammae, etc.
Of special scientific interest are the cases of Gynw- comasiy, i.e.j the development of mammae in the male in- dividual, with concomitant inhibited development of the testicles during the period of puberty. Galen described and named this anomaly. LaurenVs monograph^ on this sub- ject is worthy of mention.
As a rule the gynecomast is slender in build, has a smooth face and stunted testicles, is devoid of the secondary sexual characteristics of the man, has but little sexual de- sire for the opposite sex, is in short a sort of a man-woman of moral and metaphysical inferiority.
It is a remarkable fact that Gynecomasty only occurs in neurotically degenerated families, and must be looked upon as the manifestation of an anatomical and functional degeneration.
^Laurent$ lea biaexute, Paris, 1894; Idem, de I'li4r4dit< dat aOmacomastes. Annales d’hygiene, publ. 1890.
44
PSYCHOPATHIA SEXUALIS.
Castration never produces Oynecomasty, in which the glandular tissue but rarely develops, whilst the nipple be- comes erogenous and capable of erection as in woman. Lac- tation has but seldom been observed. With involution even the mammsB disappear. The true Oynecomast betrays signs of effemination — ^the voice is soft and has a high pitch, the hair on the mons veneris is that of a woman, the skin is soft, the pelvis wide, potency though weak is yet heterosexual and libido is wanting. It cannot be denied that in these cases through the interruption of evolutionary processes the sexual characteristics of the man have been replaced by .those of the woman and that by this substitu- tion the development also of other physical and psychical sexual characteristics has been influenced in the sense of inversion. The possible combinations, of course, vary greatly.
An interesting and important question now arises, viz. : ^^hat determines the development of an individual of that definite sexual type which possesses all the character- istics of a man, or a woman
One is tempted to look upon the development of the genital glands as the determining factor which may be recognized even in the apparently bisexual foetus. For the primary sexual characteristics in the form of the sexual organs are present and may be with puberty developed into the secondary sexual characteristics.
That the sexual glands are important so far as the sex itself is concerned is hardly open to controversy, but they are not necessarily the determining factor. For we shall see later on that the secondary characteristics (sexual sen- sations, attraction by the physical and psychical properties of the opposite sex, and the instinct to have sexual inter- course with persons of the opposite sex) may be inverted even at the very beginning of sexual development.
Again the experience of gynecologists allows of the fol- lowing deductions: Hegar (NothnageVs Pathologic, xx. Part I., p. 371) points out:
(1) that despite of congenital defects and rudimentary
ANTHBOFOLOGICAL FAOTfiL
45
development of the ovaries the feminine type may be thor- oughly preserved;
(2) that the female sexual characteristics are relatively independent of the ovaries as is proved by transverse Hermaphroditism. The old axiom ^Tropter solum ovari- um mulier est quod est/^ therefore falls.
The sex-determining momentum is unknown.
The form of the sexual glands is therefore not the quali- fying element of sex-determination, but we must look rather to sexual sensations and the sexual instinct.
All this directs our attention to the central domains of that nervous plexus which dominates the sexual functions and which renders intermediary sexual gradations between the pure type of man and woman possible, quite in accord- ance with the original bisexual predisposition of the foetus. These grades may be due to some interference in the evolu- tion of our present mono-sexuality (corresponding physical and psychical sexual characteristics) based upon degener- ative, especially hereditary degeneration conditions.
The science of to-day can boast of but little positive knowledge about the evolutionary influence which the va- rious departments of the sexual apparatus exercise Upon each other. It is natural that we should study the influ- ence exercised by the removal or total loss of the sexual glands upon the development or course of the vita sexualis. That such an influence exists cannot be doubted; but the extent of the controlling power of peripheral factors might largely depend on whether the elimination of the sexual glands took place before or after the development of pu- berty ; and again due regard must be given to the fact that the rise of psychical sexual characteristics may have con- siderably preceded physical development. Facts seem to prove that with the loss of the genital glands previous to puberty the development of somatic and psychical sexual characteristics is stunted even unto AsexualUy. This is true as to the male and female of the human kind as well as of domestic animals.
Matters are different if the injury occurs after this bio-
46
PSYCHOPATHIA SEXUALIS.
logical phase. Here we are bound to find physical as well as psychical characteristics already existing, but their further development becomes stimted. The manner in which these organs succumb (through illness or surgical interference) is of no import, neither is the sex itself. The only condition needed is that the development of the sec- ondary sexual characteristics had already begun as this is plainly dependent upon central spheres. How far then sexual development will go, depends chiefiy upon the con- dition and the developing powers of these central factors ; whilst its direction is governed by the biological energy of these bisexually predisposed centres.
If the development ran hitherto in heterosexual chan- nels, but was lacking in force, the sex experiences simply a check ; but if the original bisexual predisposition had not yet received a definite sexual direction, and possessed strength, sexual characteristics of the opposite sex and under circumstances even of an inverted nature may un- fold. In most cases there is but a partial development of the characteristics of the opposite sex.
Analogous experiences are made in cases in which the sexual glands were lost long after matured puberty. For instance, bearded women are frequently found in the post mortem, minus ovaries (Diet, de med. et de chirurg. prat, art. ^‘ovario’’). In a similar manner pheasant hens are found with degenerated ovaries, but with the plumage and voice of the male.^ (Discuss, de la societe zoologique de Londres).
It is a well-known fact that many women grow a beard after the climacterium and that the voice drops to a lower register. If the climax be reached very early and vitality remains very strong even another (opposite) sex may be developed. See page 247 and cases 128 and 129.
A smart difference may also be found in eunuchs, ac- cording to whether castration took place before or after
^Cf, Moll, Libido sexualis, p. 335>350, where he gives a large number of cases of perverted sexual characteristics, of a physical as well as psychical nature, even of sexual inversion.
AWTHEOPOLOGIOAL FACTS.
47
psychical puberty. In the latter case the vita sexualis is by no means a blank page for sexual feeling, and sexual instinct for the opposite sex are present, although physical and psychical sexual characteristics of the male are stunted and femininism may take its place.
In rare cases — apparently in strongly developed bi- sexuality— signs of inverted sexuality may appear {Bedo/s case in Cadiz of a eunuch with developed mammae).
These facts are not in favour of the exclusive effects exercised by the sexual glands upon the development of the vita sexualis, especially of the psychical sexual character- istics, which no doubt belong to those central spheres which normally come into functional force with arriving puberty and thus determine the essential criterion of the sex (sex- ual instinct).
IV. GENERAL PATHOLOGY.^
(nbubologioal and psychological.)
Anomalies of the sexual functions are met with especially in civilised races. This fact is explained in part by the frequent abuse of the sexual organs, and in part by the circumstance that such functional anomalies are chiefly the signs of an inherited diseased condition of the central nervous system (^Afunctional signs of degeneration^^).
^Literature : ParenUDuchatelet, " Prostitution dans la ville de Paris," 1837. Roaenba/um, ** Entstehung der Syphilis," Halle, 1839 — also, Die Lustseuche im Alterthum," Halle, 1839. Deacuret, " La m^teine des Passions," Paris, 1860. Caspar, “ Klin. Novellen," 1860. Baati^, ** Der Mensch in der Geschichte ". Friedldnder, “ Sit* tengeschichte Homs Wiedemeiater, ** Chsarenwahnsinn ", Scherr, “Deutsche Kultur imd Sittengeschichte," Bd. i., cap. ix. Jeounnel, “Die Prostitution," deutsch von Miiller, Erlangen, 1809. v. Krafft, “ Neue Forschungen auf dem Gebiete der Psychopathia sexualis," 2 Aufl., Stuttgart, 1891. Taxil, “La Prostitution contemporaine," Paris, 1884. Frank Lydston, “Philadelph. Med. and Surg. Reports, 1889. Urquhardt, Journal of Mental Science, Jan. 1891. Antoniniy “ Archiv. di Psichiatria," xxi., 1, 2. Cwntai a/no, Zeitschr. “ La Psi- chiatria," v., 2, 3. Krauaa, “Psychologie des Verbrechens,” 1884. Kienum, “Medic. Standard," Nov., 1889. Delcourt, “Le Vice d. Paris,” i889. Lombroao, “L’uomo Delinquente," 2 Aufl., 1878. Tout- mouche, “Annal. d’hygifene," 1868. Oiraldbs et Eorteloup, ibidem, 1876, p. 419. Eulenhurg, “ Klin. Handb. d. Harn- und Sexualorgane," 1894, 4 Abthl., p. 36. Moll, “ Untersuchungen tiber die Libido sex- ualis," 1897; “Archivio delle psicopatie sessuali," Naples (1896) volume imico. Tardieu, “Des attentats aux moeurs," 7 6dit., 1878. Emminghaua, “ Psychopathol.,” pp. 98, 225, 230, 232. Bchiile, “Hand- buch der Geisteskrankheiten," p. 114. Marc, “Die Geisteskrankheiten," ii., p. 128. 17. Krafft, “Lehrb. d. Psychiatrie, 6 Aufl. i., p. 77; “Lehrb. d. ger. Psychopathol.,” 3 Aufl., p. 279; “Archiv f. Psychi- atrie,” vii., 2. Moreau, “ Des aberrations dii sens g^^n^sique,” Paris, 1880. Kim, “Allg. Zeitschr. f.* Psychiatrie," 39, Heft 2 u. 3. Lorn- broao, “ Geschlechtstrieb und Yerbrechen in ihren gegenseitigen Bezie- hungen”. {Goltdammer^a “Archiv.” Bd. 30). Tarnowsky, “Die krank- haf^ Erscheinungen des Geschlechtssinnes," Berlin, 1886. Ball, “ La
(48)
8FIKAL NZUBOSSS.
49
Since the generative organs stand in important func- tional relation to the entire nervous system, and especially to its psychical and somatic functions, the frequency of general neuroses and psychoses arising in sexual (func- tional or organic) disturbances, is easy to understand
SCHEDULE OF THE SEXUAL NEUEOSBS.
1. Pbbiphebal.
1. Sensory.
(a) Anaesthesia; (6) Hyperaesthesia ; (c) Neuralgia.
2. Secretory.
(a) Aspermia; (b) Polyspermia.
3. Motor.
(a) Pollutions (spasm) ; (6) Spermatorrhoea (paralysis) .
IL Spinal Neuboses.
1. Affections of the Erection Centre.
(a) Irritation (priapism) arises from reflex action of peripheral sensory irritants (c.gr., gonorrhoea) ; directly, from organic irritation of the nerve-tracts leading from the brain to the erection centre (spinal disease in the lower cervical and upper dorsal regions), or of the centre itself (certain poisons) ; or from psychical irritation.
In the latter case satyriasis exists, i. e.j abnormal dura-
folie tfrotique,” Paris, 1888. SMeum, "Recherches cliniques but let anomalies de Tinstinct sexuel/’ Paris, 1888. Hammond^ Sexual Impotence,’’ 1889. v. Krafft^ ** ttber sexuale Perversionen.” Leyden*^ deutsche Klinik, 1901, vi. v, Schrcnk-Notzing, Die Suggestionsthera- pie, 1892; also, Zeitsch. ftlr Hypnotismus, vii., H. 1 & 2, viii., H. 1. (Literatur.) Moll, die contrare Sexualempfindung, 3 Aufl. 1889; also, Untersuchungen Ob, d. Libido sexualis, 1897-98. Hirschfeld, Jahrb. f. sexuelle Zwischenstufen, Jahrg. i.-iv. Bloch, BeitrOge z. Aetiologie der Psychopathia sexualis, ii., Theil, 1903.
Among modern novelists who deal with the subject of sexual per- version the French are most pre-eminent, via,: Catulle Mendds, Pdlo- dan, Lemonnier, Duhut de la Foreet (“L’homme de joie”), Huya- tnana ('’La bas”), Zola.
60
PBYCHOFATHIA SSXUALIS.
tion of erectioxii with libido sexualis. In reflex or direct organic irritation^ libido sexualis may be wanting, and the priapism may even give rise to disgust
(b) Paraylsis arises from the destruction of the centre, or of the nerve-tracts (nervi erigentes), in diseases of the spinal cord (paralytic impotence).
A milder form is that of lessened excitability of the centre, resulting from over-stimulation (sexual excess, especially onanism), or from alcoholic intoxication, abuse of bromides, etc. It may also originate from cerebral anaesthesia, or that of the external genitals. Cerebral hyperaesthesia is more frequent in such cases (increased libido sexualis j lust).
A peculiar form of diminished excitability is shown in those cases where the centre responds only to certain stimu- li. Thus there are men to whom sexual contact with their virtuous wives does not supply the necessary stimulus for an erection, but in whom it occurs when the act is at- tempted with a prostitute, or in the form of some unnatural sexual act So far as psychical stimuli are concerned, they may be inadequate (v. infrck, parsesthesia and perversion of sexual instinct).
(c) Inhibition. The erection centre may become in- capable of function through cerebral influence. This in- hibitory influence is an emotional process (disgust, fear of contagion), or fear^ of impotence. There are men who have an unconquerable antipathy to woman, or fear of infection, or are suffering with perverse sexual instinct. In the latter condition are those neuropathic individuals (neurasthenics, hypochondriacs), frequently weakened sex' ually (masturbators), who have reason, or think they have, to mistrust their sexual power. This idea acts as an in-
*Aii interesting instance of how an imperative conception of ■on-sexual content can exert an influence is related hy Magnan (** Ann. M4d. Pi^ch./' 1885) ; Student, aged twenty-one, strongly pre- disposed hereditarily, previously a masturbator, constantly struggles with the number thirteen as an imperative conception. As soon as he attempts coitus the imperative idea inhibits erection and rendexf the act impossible.
BFTBfAL inBUBOSSS.
61
hibitory impulse, and makes the act with the person of the opposite sex temporarily or absolutely impossible*
(d) Irritable Weakness. In this condition there is abnormal impressionability of the centre, but accompanied by rapid diminution of its energy. There may be func- tional disturbance of the centre itself, or weakness of the innervation through the nervi erigentes; or there may be weakness of the erector penis muscle. Cases in which erec- tion is abortive on account of abnormally early ejaculation, form a transition to the following anomalies : —
2. Affections of the Ejaculation Centre.
(a) Abnormally easy ejaculation from absence of cerebral inhibition, resulting from excessive psychical ex- citement or irritable weakness of the centre. In this case, under certain circumstances, the simple conception of a lascivious situation is suflScient to set the centre in action (high degree of spinal neurasthenia, usually resulting from sexual abuse). A third possibility is hypersesthesia of the urethra, by virtue of which the escaping semen induces an immediate and excessive reflex action of the ejaculation centre. In such cases simple proximity to the female genitals may be sufficient to induce ejaculation {ante portam).
In cases of hyperaesthesia of the urethra (as a cause), ejaculation may be accompanied by painful, instead of pleasurable sensations. Usually in cases where there is hypersBsthesia of the urethra, there is at the same time irritable weakness of the centre. Both these functional disturbances are important in the production of pollutio nimia and diuma.
The accompanying pleasurable feeling may be patho- logically absent. This occurs in defective men and women (ansesthesia, aspermia?), and, further, as a result of dis- ease (neurasthenia, hysteria) ; or (in prostitutes) it fol- lows over-stimulation and the blunting this induced. The intensity of the pleasurable feeling accompanying the
53
PSYCHOPATHIA SBXUALIS.
sexual act depends on the degree of psychical and motor excitement Under pathological conditions this may become so pronounced, that the movements of coitus assume the character of involuntary convulsive actions, and even pass into general convulsions.
(b) Abnormally difficult ejaculalion. It is occasioned by inexcitability of the centre (absence of libido, paralysis of the centre: organic, from disease of brain or spinal cord; functional, from sexual abuses, marasmus, diabetes, morphinism), and, in this case, for the most part, in con- nection with anaesthesia of the genitals and paralysis of the erection centre. Or, it is the result of a lesion of the reflex arc or of peripheral anaesthesia (urethra), or of aspermia. The ejaculation occurs either not at all, or tardily, in the course of the sexual act, or only afterward, in the form of a pollution.
in. CeBEBBAL iN’ETTBOBES.
(1) Paradoxia, i.e., sexual excitement occurring inde- pendently of the period of the physiological processes in the generative organs.
(2) Anaesthesia (absence of sexual instinct). Here all organic impulses arising from the sexual organs, as well as all impulses, and visual, auditory and olfactory sense impressions fail to sexually excite the individual. This is a physiological condition in childhood and old age.
(3) Hyperoesthesia (increased desire, satyriasis). In this state there is an abnormally increased impressionabil- ity of the vita sexualis to organic, psychical and sensory stimuli (abnormally intense libido, lustfulness, lascivious- ness). The stimulus may be central (nymphomania, satyriasis) or peripheral, functional or organic.
(4) ParcBsthesia (perversion of the sexual instinct, i.e., excitability of the sexual functions to inadequate stimuli).
Sub-divisions of paroesthesia are :
(a) Sadism. It consists in this that the association of lust and cruelty, which is indicated in the physiological
CEBEBBAL XnCTTBOSBS.
68
consciousness, becomes strongly marked on a psychically degenerated basis, and that this lustful impulse coupled with presentations of cruelty rises to the height of power- ful affects. This generates a force that seeks to mate- rialise these presentations of fancy, and which is ac- complished when hyperaesthesia supervenes as a compli- cation, or inhibitory moral counter-presentations fail to act.
The quality of sadistic acts is defined by the relative potency of the tainted individual. If potent, the impulse of the sadist is directed to coitus, coupled with prepar- atory, concomitant or consecutive maltreatment, even murder, of the consort {"'Lust murder'^ )y the latter oc- curring chiefly because sensual lust has not been satisfied with the consummated coitus.
If the sadist is psychically or spinally impotent, as an equivalent of coitus, there will be noticed strangling, stab- bing, flagellating (of women), or under circumstances ridiculously silly and mean, acts of violence on the other person {symbolical sadism)^ or also — faute de mieux — on any living and feeling object (whipping of school children, recruits, apprentices, cruel acts on animals, etc.).
(6) Masochism is the counterpart of sadism in so far as it derives the acme of pleasure from reckless acts of violence at the hands of the consort. It springs from the impulse to create a situation by means of external phy- sical force, which is in accordance with the individual psychical and spinal stage of potency, as a preparatory and concomitant means to experience the voluptuous sen- sation of coitus, to increase it or to make it a substitute for cohabitation. In direct ratio of the intensity of the perverse instinct and the remaining power of moral and cesthetic counter motives, it forms a gradation of the most abhorrent and monstrous to the most ludicrous and absurd acts (the request for personal castigation, humiliations of all sorts, passive flagellation, etc.).
(c) Fetigl^ism invests imaginary presentations of sep-
54
PSTOHOPATHIA SSXXJALIS.
arate parts of the body or portions of raiment of the op- posite sex, or even simply pieces of clothing-material, with voluptuous sensations. Tie pathological Bspect of this manifestation may be deduced from the fact that feticbism of parts of the body never stands in direct relation to sea;, that it concentrates the whole sexual interest in the one part abstracted from the entire body.
As a rule, when the individual fetish is absent coitus becomes impossible or can only be managed under the in- fluence of the respective imaginary presentation, and even then grants no gratification. Its pathological condition is strongly accentuated by the circumstance that the fetichist does not find gratification in coitus itself, but rather in the manipulation of that portion of the body or that object which forms the interesting and effective fetich.
The fetich varies individually and is, no doubt, occa- sioned by some incident which determines the relation be- tween a single impression and the voluptuous feeling.
(d) Aniipaihic Sexuality is the total absence of sex- ual feeling toward the opposite sex. It concentrates all sexuality in its own sex. The physical and psychical properties of persons of the same sex alone exercise an aphrodisic effect and awaken a desire for sexual union. It is purely a psychical anomaly, for the sexual instinct does in no wise correspond with the primary and second- ary physical sexual characteristics. In spite of the fully differentiated sexual type, in spite of the normally devel- oped and active sexual glands, man is drawn sexually to the man, because he has, consciously or otherwise, the in- stinct of the female toward him, or vice versa.
From the clinical and anthropological standpoint this abnormal manifestation offers various grades of develop- ment.
(a) In predominant homosexual instinct traces of heterosexual (psychical) hermaphrodisia are to be found.
(b) If there is only inclination to the own sex (ho- mosexuality) the secondary physical sexual characteristics
OBBEBBAL inCtTBOSEB. 55
are normali but the psychical ones may point to indpient inversion.
(c) The psychical sexual characteristics are inverted, t.e,, they are shaped in accordance with the existing ab- normal sexuality (effeminatio-viraginity).
(d) Also the secondary physical sexual characteristics approach that sex to which the individual, according to his instinct, belongs (androgyny-gynandry).
These cerebral anomalies fall within the domain of psychopathology. The spinal and peripheral anomalies may occur in combination with the former; but as a rule they affect persons free from mental disease. They may occur in various combinations, and become the cause of sexual crimes, for which reason they demand considera- tion in the following description. However, the cerebral anomalies claim the principal interest, since they very frequently lead to the commission of perverse and even criminal acts.
A. Partdoxia. Sexual Instinct Manifesting Itself lnde> pendently of Physiological Processes.
1. Sexual Instinct Manifested in Childhood.
Every physician conversant with nervous affections and diseases incident to childhood is aware of the fact that^ manifestations of sexual instinct may occur in very young children. The observations of Ultzmann concerning masturbation in childhood' are worthy of attention in relation to it. It is necessary here to differentiate between the numerous cases, in which, as a result of phimosis, balanitis, or oxyuris in the rectum or the vagina, young
'Louyer^Vtllermay speaks of masturbation in a girl of three or four years, and Moreau (“ aberrations du sens gfo^sique,’* 2 Sdit., p. 209) of the same in one of two years. See further Maudeley,
“ Physiology and Pathology of Mind”; Hirschsprung (Kopenhagen), Berlin. Win. Wochenschr^* 1888, Nr. 88; Lombroso. " The CWminal ” 10, 10. and 21.
PSYOHOPATHIA SBXtrAXJS.
M
children have itching of the genitals^ and experience a kind of pleasurable sensation from manipulations occa- sioned thereby, and thus come to practise masturbation; and those cases in which sexual ideas and impulses occur in the child as a result of cerebral processes without peripheral causes. It is only in this latter class of cases that we have to do with premature manifestations of sexual instinct. In such cases it may always be regarded as an accompanying symptom of a neuropsycbopatbic consti- tutional condition
A case of Marc's (^^Die Geisteskrankheiten,” etc., von Ideler, i., p. 66) illustrates very well these conditions. The subject was a girl of eight years of age, of respectable fam- ily, who was devoid of all child-like and moral feelings, and had masturbated from her fourth year; at the same time she consorted with boys of the age of ten or twelve. She had thought of killing her parents, that she might become her own mistress and give herself up to pleasure with men.
In these cases of premature manifestation of libido the children begin early to masturbate; and, since they are greatly predisposed constitutionally, they often sink into dementia, or become subjects of severe degenerative neu- roses or psychoses.
Lombroso (‘‘Archivio di Psichiatria,” iv., p. 22) has collected a number of cases of children affected with very decided hereditary taint, which belong to this category. One was that of a girl who masturbated shamelessly and almost constantly at the age of three. Another girl began at the age of eight, and continued to practise masturba- tion when married, and even during pregnancy. She was pregnant twelve times. Five of the children died early, four were hydrocephalic, and two boys began to mastur- bate—one at the age of seven, the other at the age of four.
Zambaco f^T^EncSphale,” 1882, Nr. 1, 2) tells the disgusting story of two sisters affected with premature and perverse sexual desire. The elder. *EL. masturbated
OSBSBB^ BISEUSOSSS^PABADOXIA. 57*
at the age of seven, practised lewdness with boys, stole wherever she could, seduced her four-year-old sister into masturbation, and at the age of ten was given up to the practice of the most revolting vices. Even ferrum candens ad clitoridem had no effect in overcoming the practice, and she masturbated with the cassock of a priest while he was exhorting her to reformation.
Cf. also Magnan, ^^Lectures on Psychiatry,” (in Ger- man by Mobius, vols. ii. and iii., p. 27), giving the case of premature and preverse vita sexualis in a girl of twelve with hereditary taint. Other cases, ibidem p. 120-121.
2. Re-awaTcening of Sexual Instinct in Old Age?'
Cases in which the sexual instinct prevails until a great age are rare. ^^Senectus non quidem annis sed viribus magis sestimatur” {Zittmann). Oesterlen (^Masch- Tea, Handb.,” iii., p. 18) mentions the case of a man aged eighty-three, who was sentenced to three years^ imprison- ment by a court in Wiirtemberg on account of sexual mis- demeanours. Unfortunately nothing is said of the nature of the crime or of the mental condition of the criminal.
The manifestation of sexual instinct in old age is not in itself pathological.
Presumption of pathological conditions must neces- sarily be entertained when the individual is decrepit and his sexual life has already long become extinct ; and when the impulse, in a man whose sexual needs were in his early life, perhaps, not very marked, manifests itself with greater strength, and strives for even perverse satisfaction in a shameless and impulsive manner.
In such cases a presumption of pathological condi^ tions suggests itself at once. Medical science recognises the fact that such an impulse depends upon the morbid alterations of the brain which lead to senile dementia. I'his abnormal manifestation of sexual life may be the
Kim, " Zeitschr. f. Psych.,” Bd. xxxix. Legrand du HotiZle,
« Annal. d*hyg.,” Oct., 1868.
68
P8YCH0PATHIA SSSUAUa.
precursor of senile dementia^ and make its appearance even long before there are anj well-defined manifesta* tions of intellectual weakness. The attentive and expe* rienced observer will always be able to detect in this prodromal stage an alteration of character in pejus, and a deterioration of the moral sense accompanying the peculiar sexual manifestation.
The libido of those passing into senile dementia is at first expressed in lascivious speech and gesture. The first objects for the attempts of these senile subjects of brain atrophy and psychical degeneration are children. This sad and dangerous fact is explained by the better oppor- tunity they have in succeeding with children, but more especially by a feeling of imperfect sexual power. De- fective sexual power, and greatly diminished moral sense, explain the additional fact of the perversity of the sexual acts of such aged men. They are the equivalents of the impossible physiological act.
The annals of legal medicine distinguish as such, ex- hibition of the genitals,^ lustful handling of the genitals of children,* inducing them to perform manustupration on the seducer, and performing masturbation® or flagellation on the victim.
In this stage the intellect may still be sufficiently in- tact to allow avoidance of publicity and discovery, while the moral sense is too far gone to allow consideration of the moral significance of the act, and resistance to tlie impulse. With the progress of dementia, these acts are more and more shamelessly committed. Then care on account of defective sexual power disappears, and adults also become the objects of the senile passion; but the defective sexual power necessitates equivalents for coitus. Not infrequently sodomy results, and, as Tamowshy {op. cit, p. 77) points out, in the sexual act performed with
Haases, vide Laeigue; exhibitionisteg/* Union
1871: iBt May
*hegrand du Saulle, *' La folie devant les tribunaux/’ p. 530.
*Kim, Uaeohka*M ‘‘Handb. d. ger. Med.” pp. 373, 374; “Allg. ^eivBchrilt f. Ptychiatiie,” Bd. xxxix., p. 220.
CSBSBBAL KEUBOSES — ^PABADOZIA*
69
geese^ chickens^ etc., the sight of the dying Anirnal and its death-struggles at the time of coitus afford complete gratification. The perverse sexual acts with adults are quite as horrible, and may be explained psychologically in the same way.
Case 49, in the author^s “Text-Book of Legal Psycho- pathology,” second edition, p. 161, demonstrates how enormously increased sexual lust may be during the course of senile dementia. Quum senex libidinosus ger^ manam suam filiam osmulatione motus necaret et adspeetn pectoris scissi puellce moribundoe delectaretuK
Erotic delirium and states of satyriasis may occur in the course of the malady, with or without maniacal episodes, as the following case shows : —
Case 1. J. Rene, always given to indulgence in sen- suality and sexual pleasures, but always with regard for decorum, had shown, since his seventy-sixth year, a pro- gressive loss of intelligence and increasing perversion of his moral sense. Previously bright and outwardly morale he now wasted his property in concourse with prostitutes, frequented brothels only, asked every woman on the street to marry him or allow coitus, and thus became publicly so obnoxious that it was necessary to place him in an asy- lum. There the sexual excitement increased to a veritable satyriasis, which lasted until he died. He masturbated continuously, even before others; took delight only in obscene ideas; thought the men about him were women, and followed them with indecent proposals {Legrand du Saullc, “La Folie,” p. 533).
[Moreover, women previously moral, when affected with senile dementia, may manifest similar conditions of great sexual excitement (nymphomania, furor uterinus).
It may be seen from a reading of Schopenhauer^ that, as a result of senile dementia, the abnormally excited and perverse instinct may be directed exclusively to persons of the same sex (v. infra). Gratification is obtained by
* **Die Welt ala Wille und Voratellung” 1859, Bd. ii., p. 461 et seq.
60 P8TCHOPATHIA SSSUAUS.
passive pederasty, or, as I ascertained in the following case, by mutual masturbation: —
Case 2. Mr. X., aged eighty, of high social standing, bom of a family with hereditary taint. He was always very sensual and a cynic, of uncontrollable temper, and, according to his own confession, as a young man pre- ferred masturbation to coitus. However, he never showed signs of sexual perversion, and kept mistresses, raising a child by one. At the age of forty-eight he married, out of inclination, and begat six children, and never gave his wife cause for complaint. I could obtain but an incom- plete history of bis family. It was certain that his brother was suspected of love for men, and that a nephew became insane as a result of excessive masturbation.
The patient^s temper, always peculiar and quick, had for years been growing more violent. He had become exceedingly suspicious, and slight opposition to his wishes induced attacks of anger which turned at times into actual raving, when he would raise his hand even against his wife. For a year there had been unmistakable signs of incipient senile dementia. The patient had become forgetful, local- ised past events incorrectly, and had false ideas of time. For fourteen months it was noticed that he manifested af- fection for certain male servants, especially for a garden- er^s boy. Otherwise rude and overbearing to servants, he surfeited his favourite with favours and presents, and com- manded his family and his house officials to treat the boy with the greatest respect. The aged patient awaited the hour of rendezvous in true sexual excitement. He sent his family away, that he might be with his favourite undis- turbed, and remained shut up with him for hours; and when the doors were opened again, he was found lying on the bed exhausted. Besides this object of his passion, the patient had intercourse episodically with other servants. It is certain that he enticed them, asked them for kisses, exhibited himself, allowed manipulation ad geniialia, and practised mutual masturbation. By these practices abso-
CXBEBBAI* STBUBOBBS-^PASADOZIAt U
lute demoralisation was brought about in the housdiold* The family was powerless; for any opposition caused violent outbreaks of anger and even threats against his relatives. The patient was completely without apprecia- tion of his perverse sexual acts; and therefore the only course left to the afflicted family was to remove all author- ity from his hands and place him in an asylum. No erotic inclination towards the opposite sex was observed, though the patient occupied a sleeping-apartment with his wife. With reference to the perverse sexuality and the defective moral sense of this unfortunate man, it is worthy of note that he questioned the servants of his daughter-in-law as to whether she had lovers.
B. — ^Anftsthesia Sexualis (Absence of Sexual Feeling).
1. As a Congenital Anomaly^
Only those cases can be regarded as unquestionable examples of absence of sexual instinct dependent on cere- bral causes, in which, in spite of generative organs nor- mally developed and the performance of their functions (secretion of semen, menstruation), the corresponding emotions of sexual life are absolutely wanting. These func- tionally sexless individuals are rare cases, and, indeed, always persons having degenerative defects, in whom other functional cerebral disturbances, states of psychical degen- eration, and even anatomical signs of degeneration, may be observed.
Case 3. K., age 29, civil servant, consulted me on
account of his abnormal sexual condition. Being without relatives he wanted to marry, but only on rational grounds. He claimed to have never experienced a sensual emotion. Sexual life •was known to him only from what he had heard other men say about it or from what he had read in erotic novels, which, however, had never made any im- pression upon him« He had no dislike for the
9t HKOHOPATHIA 8SXUAUS.
opposite seZ| or special indination towards his own sex, and had never masturbated. Since his seventeenth year he had at intervals nocturnal pollutions, but without con-*^ oomitant lascivious dreams. Erections occurred in the morning when waking which, however, disappeared at once after emptying the bladder. Excepting this want of sexual instinct £. considered himself quite normal. No psychical defects could be detected. He was fond of solitude, but of a frigid nature, without interest in the arts or the beau- tiful, but a highly efficient and esteemed official.
Case 4. W., age 25, merchant, claimed to be un-
tainted, never had a severe illness, never had masturbated, since his nineteenth year had but rarely pollutions, mostly without sensual dreams. Since his twenty-first year coitus rarissimus, actus quasi masturhatorius, in corpore feminae, sine ulla voluptate. W. declared to have made these at- tempts solely through curiosity, and soon gave them up altogether as desire, gratification, and ultimately even erection were wanting. He never bad any leaning towards his own sex. His deficiency did not seem to cause him any worry. In the ethical and aesthetical field there were no ab- normal manifestations.
Case 5. P., aged thirty-six, common labourer, was received at my clinic in the beginning of IsTovember on account of spastic spinal paralysis. He declared he came of a healthy family. A stutterer from his youth. Cranium microcephalic (cf. 53 cm.). Patient somewhat imbecile. He was never sociable, never had a sexual emotion. The sight of a woman never had anything enticing for him He never had a desire to masturbate. Erections frequent^ but only on awakening in the morning with a full bladder, and without a trace of sexual feeling. Pollutions very infrequent — about once a year, in sleep — and usually while dreaming that he was concerned with a female. These dreams, however, as his dreams in general, were not markedly erotic. He said the act of pollution was not ac-
OSBEBBAL NXUBOSEfl — ABJSSTHXSIA 8XX0ALI8* 68
oompanied by any pleasurable sensation* Patient did not feel this absence of sexual sensation* He gave the assurance that his brother, aged thirty-four, was in exactly the same sexual condition as himself, and made it seem probable that a sister, aged twenty-one, was in a similar state* A younger brother, he sai^ was sexually normal* The examination of his genitals revealed nothing abnormal beyond phimosis.
Further cases see 7. Krafft, ‘^Arbeiten,” iv., p. 178, 179*
Hammond (^^Sexual Impotence”), even with his wide experience, reports only the following three cases of ansss- thesia sexualis : —
Case 6. Mr. W., aged thirty-three; strong, healthy, with normal genitals. He had never experienced libido^ and had vainly sought to awaken his defective sexual in- stinct by means of obscene stories and intercourse with prostitutes. On the occasion of such attempts he experi- enced only disgust, with even a feeling of nausea, and became nervously and mentally exhausted. Only once, when he forced the situation, did he have a transitory erec- tion. W. had never masturbated, and had had pollutions about once every two months from his seventeenth year. Important interests demanded that he should many. He had no horror feminw, and longed for a home and a wife, but felt that he was incapable of the sexual act. He died unmarried in the American Civil War.
Case 7. X., aged twenty-seven, genitals normal;
never felt libido. Mechanical or thermic stimuli easily in- duced erection, but libido sexmlis was regularly replaced by a desire for alcoholic indulgence. Such excesses also induced erections, and he then sometimes masturbated. He had a disinclination for women and a loathing of coitus. If, with an erection, he made an attempt at coitus, it disappeared at once. Death in coma during an attack of cerebral hypersemia.
64" PSTCHOFATHIA SJSZirALIS.
Case 8. Mrs. 0., normally developed, healthy, men* struated regularly ; aged thirty-five ; fifteen years married. She never experienced libido, and never had any erotic excitement in sexual intercourse with her husband. She was not averse to coitus, and sometimes seemed to experi- ence pleasure in it, but she never had a wish for repetition of cohabitation.
In connection with such genuine cases of ansBsthesia,^ there should be considered other cases in which the mental side of the vita sexaalis is a blank leaf in the life of the individual, but where elementary sexual sensations manifest themselves at least in masturbation (cf. the tran- sitional case 7). According to Magnan^s ingenious classi- fication— which, however, is not strictly correct and somewhat too dogmatic — in such cases the sexual life is so limited as to be designated spinal. Possibly in some such cases there exists virtually a mental side of the vita sexualis, but it is very weak, and undermined by mastur- bation before it attains development. These represent the transitional cases from the congenital to the acquired (psychical) anwsthesia sexualis. This danger threatens many masturbators of vitiated constitution. It is psycho- logically interesting that when the sexual element is early vitiated, then an ethical defect is manifested.
The two following cases, previously published by me in the ^^Archiv fiir Psychiatric,” vii., are given here as illustrations worthy of consideration: —
'No doubt Swift’s, the great satirist, was a case of ansesthesia sexualis. Adolf Stem says in his biography of Swift (** Aus dem 18. Jahrhundert; Biographische Bilder und Skizzen,” Leipzig, 1874) :
“ It seems that he was totally devoid of the sensual elements of love; bis candid cynicism, found in many of his letters, is almost definite proof of this. Whoever properly grasps certain passages in ‘ Gulli- ver’s Travels,’ and especially the account which Swift gives of the marriage and progeny of the Houyhnhorses, the noble steeds of the last chapters, can scarcely doubt that this great satirist abhorred marriage, and never felt the impulse which draws the sexes together.” Practically speaking, the enigmatical side of Swift’s character, and several of his works, ois., “Diary to Stella” and “Gulliver’s Travels,” ean only be understood if Swift is considered sexually anesthetic.
OXBBBSA.L SrXUBCMnBS — AITJBBTHBSIA SBXUALIS. 65
Case 0* F. J., aged nineteen, student; mother was nervous, sister epileptic. At the age of four, acute brain affection, lasting two weeks. As a child he was not affectionate, and was cold towards his parents ; as a student he was peculiar, retiring, preoccupied with self, and given to much reading. Well endowed mentally. Masturbation from fifteenth year. Eccentric after puberty, with con* tinual vacillation between religious enthusiasm and ma- terialism— ^now studying theology, now natural sciences. At the university his fellow-students took him for a fool. He read Jean Paul almost exclusively, and wasted his time. Absolute absence of sexual feeling toward the op- posite sex. Once he indulged in intercourse, experienced no sexual feeling in the act, found coitus absurd, and did not repeat it. Without any emotional cause whatever, he often had a thought of suicide. He made it the subject of a philosophical dissertation, in which he contended that it was, like masturbation, a justifiable act. After repeated experiments which he made on himself with various poi- sons, he attempted suicide with fifty-seven grains of opium, but he was saved and sent to an asylum.
Patient was destitute of moral and social feelings. His writings disclosed incredible frivolity and vulgarity. His knowledge was of a wide range, but his logic peculiarly distorted. There was no trace of emotionality. He treated everything (even the sublime) with incomparable cynicism and irony. He pleaded for the justification of suicide with false philosophical premises and conclusions, and, as one would speak of the most indifferent affair, he declared that he intended to accomplish it. He regretted that his pen- knife had been taken from him. If he had it, he would open his veins as Seneca did — in the bath. At one time a friend had given him instead of a poison as he sup- posed, a cathartic. Instead of sending him to the other world, it sent him to the water-closet. Only the Great Operator could eradicate his foolish and fatal idea with the c^ythe of death, etc.
The patient had a large, rhombic, distorted skull, the
5
66
PSTCHOPATHIA SBXUAUi.
left of the forehead being flatter than the right. The occiput was very straight. Ears far back, widely project- ing, and the external meatus formed a narrow slit. Gfenitals very lax; testicles unusually soft and smalL
Kow and then the patient suffered with onomatomania. He was compelled to think of the most useless problems and give himself up to interminable, distressing and worry- ing thoughts, and became so fatigued that he was no longer capable of any rational thinking. After some months the patient was sent home unimproved. There he spent his time in reading and frivolities, and busied himself with the thought of founding a new system of Christianity because Christ had been subject to grand delusions and had deceived the world with miracles ( !). After remaining at home some years the sudden occurrence of a maniacal outbreak brought him back to the asylum. He presented a mixture of primordial delirium of persecution (devil, antichrist, persecution, poisoning, persecuting voices) and delusions of grandeur (Christ, redemption of the world), with impulsive, incoherent actions. After five months there was a remission of this intercurrent acute mental disease, and the patient returned to the level of his original intellectual peculiarity and moral defect
Case 10. E., aged thirty, journeyman painter, was arrested while trying to cut off the scrotum of a boy he had caught in the woods. He gave as a motive for this act that he wished to cut it off in order that the world should not multiply. Often in his youth, with like purpose, he had cut into his own genitals.
It is impossible to learn anything of his ancestry. From his childhood he was mentally abnormal, violent, never lively, very irritable, irascible, selfish and weak minded. He hated women, loved solitude, and read much. He sometimes laughed to himself and did silly things. Of late years his hatred of women had increased, especially of those that were pregnant, they being responsible for the misery of the world. He also ha^ children, and
OBEBBEAL KBtTEOBBS — ^AEiBBTHlUlIA SBXUALIB.
cursed his father. He entertained communistic ideas^ and berated the rich and the ministry and God, who had allowed him to come into the world so poor. He declared that it would be better to castrate all children than to allow others to come into the world fated only to endure poverty and misery. He had always had the in- tention, from his fifteenth year, of castrating himself, in order that he might have no part in increasing unhappiness and adding to the number of men. He hated the female sex because it was a means of procreation. Only twice in his life had he allowed women to practise manustupration on him, and, with the exception of this he had never had anything to do with them. Occasionally he had sexual desire, but never for a natural gratification of it. When nature did not help him, he occasionally helped himself by means of masturbation.
He was a powerful, muscular man. The formation of the genitals presented no abnormality. On the scrotum and penis were numerous scars, the results of his attempts at self-emasculation, which, he asserted, were not carried out on account of pain. Genu valgum of right leg. No evidence of onanism could be discovered. He was moody, defiant, irritable. Social feelings were absolutely foreign to him. With the exception of imperfect sleep and fre- quent headaches, there were no functional disturbances.
From cases of this kind, depending on cerebral causes, there must be distinguished others in which the absence of function arises from an absence of malformation of the generative organs, as in certain hermaphrodites, idiots and cretins.
Ultzmann*s^ observations show that anaesthesia sexualis is not caused simply by aspermia. He shows that even in congenital aspermia the vita sexualis and sexual power may be entirely satisfying; an additional proof that de-
Ueber mttnnliche SterilitUt,” Wiener ined. Presse, 1878, Nr. 1. ** Ueber Potentia generandi et co^undi,” Wiener KHnik* 1885, Heft 1, S. 5.
68
PSTOHOFATBXJL nXUALIfl.
fective libido db origine is to be sought for in cerebral con* ditions.
The naturae frigidae of Zacchias are examples of a milder form of anflesthesia. They are met with more fre- quently in women than in men* The characteristic signs of this anomaly are : slight inclination to sexual intercourse^ or pronounced disinclination to coitus without sexual equiva- lent, and failure of corresponding psychical, pleasurable excitation during coitus, which is indulged in simply from sense of duty. I have often had occasion to hear com- plaints from husbands about this. In such cases the wives have always proved to be neuropathic c6 origine. Some were at the same time hysterical.
2. Acquired AnaaiheAa.
Acquired diminution of sexual instinct, extending through all degrees to extinction, may depend on various causes. These may be organic and functional, psychical and somatic, central and peripheral. The diminution of libido, as age advances, and its temporary disappearance after the sexual act, are physiological. The variations with reference to the duration of the sexual instinct are de- pendent upon individual factors. Education and manner of life have a great influence upon the intensity of the vita sexualis. Intense mental activity (hard study), phy- sical exertion, emotional depression, and sexual continence decidedly diminish sexual inclination. Continence at first induces increase, but sooner or later, according to con- stitutional conditions, the activity of the generative organs decreases, and with it libido. At all events, in a person sexually mature, a close connection exists between the activity of the generative glands and the degree of libido. That this relation is not determined is shown by the cases of sensual women, who, after the climacterium, continue to have sexual intercourse, and may manifest states of sexual excitement (cerebral). Also in eunuchs it is seen that libido may long outlast the production of semen.
OEBBBBAIi BBXTBOSBS — HTFEBiBSTHESlA. 69
On the other hand^ however, experience teaches that libido is essentially conditioned by the functions of the generative glands, and that the facts mentioned are ex- ceptional manifestations. As peripheral causes of diminu- tion or extinction of libido, may be mentioned castration, degeneration of the sexual glands, marasmus, sexual excesses in the form of coitus and masturbation, and alcoholism and abuse of cocaine. In the same way, the disappearance of libido in general disturbances of nutrition (diabetes, morphinism, etc.) may be explained. Finally, the atrophy of the testicles should be remem- bered, which has sometimes been observed to follow focal lesions of the brain (cerebellum).
A diminution of the vita sexualis from degeneration of the tracts of the cord and genito - spinal centre, occurs in diseases of the spinal cord and brain. A central interference with the sexual instinct may be or- ganically induced by cortical disease (dementia paralytica in its advanced stages) ; functionally, by hysteria (cen- tral anaesthesia?) and emotional insanity (melancholia, hypochondria).
C. Hyperauthesia (Abnormally Increased Sexual Desire).
One of the most important anomalies of sexual life is an abnormal presence of sexual sensations and presenta- tions from which necessarily arise frequent and violent impulses for sexual gratification. No doubt it is the out- come of the education, or rather the breeding of many centuries that the sexual instinct which is indispensable for the preservation of the race and therefore congenital in every normal individual, is not the predominant key in the chord of human sentiments, but rather forms epi- sodes in the physical and psychical life of cultured man with periods of ebb and flood tide; is the generating ele- ment of higher and nobler social and moral sentiments, and leaves room for other spheres of activity, the object of which is the furtherance of interests affecting the indi- vidual as well as society at large.
70
PSYCHOFATHIA 8SXUA1J8.
It is, moreover, a statute of the moral code and of the common law that civilised man satisfy his sexual in- stinct only within the barriers (established in the interests of the community) of modesty and morality, and that man should, under all circumstances, control this instinct so soon as it comes in conflict with the altruistic demands of society.
If the normally constituted civilised individual were unable to comply with this rule, family and state would cease to exist as the foundations of a moral, lawful com- munity.
Practically speaking the sexual instinct never develops in the normal, sane individual that has not been deprived by intoxication (alcohol, etc.) of his reason or good senses, to such an extent that it permeates all this thoughts and feelings, allowing of no other aims in life, tumultuously, and in rut-like fashion demanding gratification without granting the possibility of moral and righteous counter-pre- sentations, and resolving itself into an impulsive, insatiable succession of sexual enjoyments.
For the latter would at once betray a pathological con- dition, which episodically might produce such a high degree of sexual affection, that self-consciousness becomes clouded, sanity impaired, and a true psychical calamity established which would lead to an irresistible impulse to commit sexual acts of violence.
Such psycho-sexual extravagances have been but little probed scientifically, though they are of great importance for the criminal forum since the individual so affected can scarcely be held mentally responsible. It is fortunate for society and for the criminal doctor, who is called upon to make the diagnosis, that these cases, in which irresistible hypersensuality leads to the gravest and indisputably path- ological sexual aberrations, are only encountered in that category of human beings whom we class among the de- generates infected with hereditary taint.
Alas, their number is by no means small in modem so- ciety, which shows many marks of physical and psychical
OSBEBBAL mCTTBOSES — HYPEBiBSTHESIA*
degeneration, especially in the centres of culture and re- finement.
Coupled with perversions of sexual life and sexual im- becility springing from the same degenerated soil, often with the aiding influence of alcohol, the most monstrous and horrible sexual excesses (cf. Sadism) are perpetrated which would disgrace humanity at large, could they be committed by normal man.
The commission of these atrocious acts by degenerated and partially defective individuals is the outcome of an ir- resistible impulse or delirium. The mechanism of these actions is indeed the property of psychical degeneration.
The special act follows the direction given by the her- editary or acquired impulse and in many instances is de- termined by the relative potency or impotence of the agent. This pathological sexuality is a dreadful scourge for its victim, for he is in constant danger of violating the laws of the state and of morality, of losing his honor, his freedom and even his life. Alcohol and prolonged sexual abstinence are apt to produce in such degenerated persons at any time powerful sexual affections.
Besides these graver manifestations of pathological sex- uality we find also milder and more numerous gradations of hypersexuality, to the lowest of which, perhaps, belong those individuals who, impecunious though they be whilst sexually potent, move in the better classes of society and have no other aim in life than to gratify their sexual de- sires. These are not afflicted with a pathological sexual condition, know to control themselves in a measure, observe the acknowledged rules of decency, do not compromise themselves, but allow no opportunity to pass by without utilizing it to the utmost. Another grade are the apron- hunters, the Don Juans, whose whole existence is an end- less chain of sensual enjoyment and whose blunted moral sense does not keep them from seduction, adultery and even incest.
Case 11. P., Caretaker, age 53; married; no evi-
MTCKOPATHIA BBXUAUB.
73
denee of hereditary taint; no epileptic antecedents; mod- erate drinker ; no sign of senium precox ; appeared, accord- ing to the statement of his wife during the whole time of their married life covering a period of 28 years, hypersex- ual, extremely libidinous, ever potent, in fact insatiable in his marital relations. During coitus he became quite bestial and wild, trembled all over with excitement and panted heavily. This nauseated the wife who by nature was rather frigid and rendered the discharge of her conjugal duty a heavy burden. He worried her with his jealous behaviour, but he himself soon after the marriage seduced his wife^s sister, an innocent girl, and had a child by her. In 1873 he took mother and child to his home. He now had two women, but gave preference to the sister-in-law, which the wife tolerated as a lesser evil. As years went by his libido increased, though his potency decreased. He often resorted to masturbation even immediately after coitus, and with- out in the least minding the presence of the women. Since 1892 he committed immoral acts with a girl of 16 years, who was his ward, i.e.j puellam coagere solebat, ut eum masturbaret He even tried to force her at the point of a revolver to have coitus with him. The same attempts he made on his own illegitimate child, so that both often had to be protected from him. At the clinic he was quiet and well-behaved. His excuse was hypersexuality. He ac- knowledged the wrongfulness of his actions, but said he could not help himself. The frigidity of the wife had forced him to commit adultery. There was no disturbance of his mental faculties, but the ethical elements were ut- terly wanting. He had several epileptic fits but no signs of degeneration.
We must concede that the degree of libido sexualis is subject to rise and fall in the untainted individual, accord- ing to age, constitutional conditions, mode of life and the various influences of health and illness of the body, etc. Sexual desire rapidly increases after puberty, until it reaches a marked degree ; it is strongest from the twentieth to the fortieth year, and then slowly decreases. Married
CBBEBfiAL XTBUftOSSS — ^HYPIBAaBSTHESIA. 78
Ilfs seems to preserve and control the instinct* Sexual in* tercourse with many persons increases the desire.
Since woman has less sexual need than man^ a pre- dominating sexual desire in her arouses a suspicion of its pathological significance. Those living in large cities^ who are constantly reminded of sexual things and incited to sexual enjoyment, certainly have more sexual desire than those living in the country. A dissipated, luxurious, se- dentary manner of life, preponderance of animal food, and the consumption of spirits, spices, etc., have a stimulating influence on the sexual life. In woman the sexual inclina- tion is post-menstrually increased. At this period, in neu- ropathic women, the excitement may reach a pathological degree.
The great libido of consumptives is remarkable, even during the very latest stages of the disease. Sexual hyper- CBSthesia is in ray opinion a functional manifestation of de- generation. Whether it may occur as an acquired, acci- dental, episodical condition in the untainted is worthy of scientific research. Excessive libido may be peripherally or centrally induced. The former manner of origin is the more infrequent. Pruritus and eczema of the genitals may cause it, and likewise certain substances, like cantharides, which powerfully stimulate sexual desire.
Not infrequently in women at the climacteric period sexual excitement occurs, occasioned by pruritus, and also in cases where there is neuropathic taint. Magnan (“An- nales medico-psychol.,” 1885, p. 157) reports the case of a lady who was afflicted in the mornings with attacks of frightful erethismus genitalis, and the case of a man aged fifty-five who was tormented at night by unbearable pri- apism. In each case there was a neurosis.
The central origin of sexual excitement can often be traced^ in persons having neurotic taint or hysteria and in
*Iii individuals in whom intense sexual hyperesthesia is asi^ dated with acquired irritable weakness of the sexual apparatus, it happens that simply at the siglit of a pleasing female figure, without peripheral irritation of the genitals, the psycho-sexual centre may •xcite into action not only the mechanism of the erection, but alse
74
P8TCHOPATHIA SSXUALIS.
conditions of psychical exaltation. When the cortex and the psycho-sexual centre are in a condition of hypercesthesia (abnormal excitability of the imagination, increased ease of association), not only visual and tactile impressions, but also auditory and olfactory sensations, may be sufficient to call up lascivious conceptions.
Magnan (op. cit) reports the case of a young woman who had an increasing sexual desire from puberty, and satisfied it by masturbation. Gradually she grew to be- come sexually excited at the sight of any man pleasing to her; and, since she was unable to control herself, she would sometimes shut herself up in a room until the storm had passed. At last she gave herself up to men of her choice, that she might get rest from her tormenting desire, but neither coitus nor masturbation brought relief, and she went to an asylum.
The case of a mother of five children is added, who, in despair about her inordinate sexual impulse, attempted suicide, and then sought an asylum. There her condition improved, but she never trusted herself to leave it.
There are several illustrative cases in men and women in the author’s article, ‘‘On Certain Anomalies of Sexual Instinct,” cases 6 and 7 (“Archiv fiir Psvchiatrie,” vii., 2).
The two following cases show how powerful, dangerous and painful sexual hypersesthesia may become in those af- flicted with this anomaly: —
Case 12. Hypercesthesia sexualis. Masturbatio coram discipulis in schola.
Z., 36 years of age, father of seven children, president
that of ejaculation. For such individuals, all that is necessary to induce orgasm or even ejaculation, is to imagine themselves in a sexual situation with a female that sits opposite them in a railway earriage or a drawing-room. Hammond (op. cit., p. 40) describes several cases of this kind that came to him for treatment or subse- quent impotence, and he menticms that these individuals used the term ** ideal coitus for the act. Dr. Moll, of Berlin, told me of a similar case, and in this instance the same designation was chosen for the act.
CSBEBBAL NEUBOSES — HTPE&SSTHB8IA.
7»
of school) confessed that he committed masturbation in school whilst sitting at his desk which) however) prevented the act being seen by the pupils as it was encased all around. He drank more than usual on the preceding evening) had been provoked to anger before going to school) and had been excited by the sight of some very pretty girls attending his lecture. This produced a violent erection and led to masturbation. After the act he became conscious at once of his compromising position, but the thought that the pupils had not noticed his excitement had helped him to regain self-possession.
His previous conduct being without a blemish, the au- thorities suspected a pathological condition and insisted upon a medical examination by the author.
The facts elicited were the following: Z. came from healthy parents. Two close relations were epiletics. At the age of 13 Z. suffered from a severe concussion of the brain, which produced an acute dementia lasting three weeks. Since that time frequent spells of irritability and intolerance of alcohol.
At the age of 16 awakening of vita sexualis with ab- normal vigor and pronounced sexual emotions. Lascivious literature and pictures of women produced satisfying ejacu- lation. From the age of 18 onward he indulged now and then in coitus. But as a rule the touching of a woman’s arm sulEced to produce orgasm and ejaculation. He mar- ried at the age of 24 and indulged in coitus three or four times daily, and besides practised masturbation, coupled with ideal coitus.
(See footnote on page 73).
With the birth of his fourth child (three years ago) Z. was forced, for economical reasons, to restrain himself from sexual intercourse as he despised anticonceptional means. Tdctus feminaruni, which produced pollutio diunui, proved unsatisfactory as did also automasturbation. He suffered much from incessant sexual excitement, which at the end of periods of six weeks became so strong that it affected his mind and will power sensibly. Only masturbation
76 nroHOPATHiA. saxtrAus.
kept him from oommitting sexual violence on women. Ho became very irritable and easily flew into passion, yelled and raged about the house and even beat wife and children.
It often happened now that at the height of such a spell he would fall over and become unconscious, rattling from the throat in a peculiar manner. After a few minutes he would recover again with complete amnesia of what had happened. An attack of this kind had, however, not pre- ceded the act with which he now stood charged, but had occurred three days afterward.
Z. was an intelligent, decent man, most penitent and filled with shame.
He understood quite well that he could no longer teach at a girFs school and bewailed his unnatural, unbridled sensuality.
He made no attempt to in any way excuse his action, but pointed out that his nervous system had been thor- oughly shaken of late by libido insatiata and overwork (les- sons up to twelve hours daily).
Vegetative functions normal; parietal protuberance of cranium ; genitals large, lax, but normal.
Patellar reflexes much exa^erated.
In my report I pointed out that Z. suffered from a pathologically exaggerated vita sexuaLis and most probably from epilepsy, and had committed the act whilst subject to a sexual affection which depressed the power of self-con- trol to a minimum.
Further legal proceedings were withdrawn. Z. was pensioned off.
Case 13. Onllth July, 1884, R., aged thirty-three, servant, was admitted suffering with paranoia persecutoria and neurasthenia sexualis. Mother was neuropathic ; father died of spinal disease. From childhood he had an intense sexual desire, of which he became conscious as early as his sixth year. From this age, masturbation; from fifteenth year, faute de mieux, pederasty; occasionally, sodomitic in- dulgences. Later, dbums coUus in matrimonio cum uxore.
OEBEBBAL NXinK>SXS----inrFBBJBSTHi:SIA. 77
Now and then even perverse impulse to commit cunnilingiis and to administer cantharides to his wife, because her libir do did not equal his own. His wife died after a short period of married life. Patient^s circumstances became straitened, and he had no means to indulge himself sexu- ally. Then masturbation again; employment of lingua canis to induce ejaculation. At times, priapism and con- ditions approaching satyriasis. He was then driven to masturbate in order to avoid rape. With gradually pre- dominating sexual neurasthenia and hypochondria came beneficial diminution of libido nimia.
A particular species of hyperossthesia sexualis may ba found in females in whom a most impulsive desire for sexu- al intercourse with certain men imperatively demands gratification. No doubt “unrequited love’’ for another man may often affect the married woman who does not either psychically or physically (impotentia mariti) experience connubial satisfaction; but the normal, untainted wife guided by ethical reasons knows how to conquer herself.
Of course, pathological conditions change the situation.
Fetichism must here be considered. Sexual impulse is overpowering, at times periodically recurrent. The very attempt to overcome it produces most painful attacks of worry and anxiety. This pathological want becomes so powerful that all considerations of shame, conventionality and womanly honour simply disappear, and it reveals itself in the most shameless manner even to the husband, whilst the normal woman, endowed with full moral consciousness, knows how to conceal the terrible secret.
Magnan (“Psychiatr. Vorlesungen”) quotes two strik- ing instances from his own experience. One is specially instructive. A young woman, mother of three children, with a blameless past, but daughter of a lunatic, tells her husband one day openly that she is in love with a certain young man and that she would kill herself if her intimato relations with him were interfered with. She begs per- mission to live with him for six months in order to quench
n PSTOHOPATHIA BEXUJLUB.
the fire of her passion, when she would return to her family again. Husband and children have no place in her heart with her present love. The husband took her to a foreign country and placed her there under medical treat- ment.
This pathological love of married women for other men is a phenomenon in the domain of psychopathia sexualis which sadly stands in need of scientific explanation. The author has had the opportunity of observing five cases be- longing to this category. The pathological conditions were paroxysmal, in one case repeatedly recurrent; but always sharply distinct from the unaffected, healthy period, during which deep sorrow and contrition over the occurrence were manifested. But it was the sorrow over an unavoidable fatality caused by psychically abnormal conditions.
Whilst the pathological conditions lasted, absolute in- difference, even hatred, prevailed towards husband and children, and an utter want of understanding the bearings and consequences of the scandalous behaviour, jeopardising the honour and dignity of wife and family, were noticeable. It is remarkable that in all these cases the husband and relatives had come to the conclusion that the condition was caused by psychopathia, even before they had obtained ex- pert opinion.
As against the ‘‘non-psychopathical” but otherwise ab- normally libidinous Messalinas, it is well worthy of note that this sexual aberration is only an episode in the life of the otherwise honourable woman, and that the illicit inter- course was of a strictly monogamic character. This, and particularly the circumstance that the unfortunate woman was not omnium virorum mulier, but only the mistress of one man, establishes a distinct difference from nympho- mania. In three of the cases mentioned above, the grossly sensual momentum was missing, the real motive for marital infidelity was to be found in a fetich-like charm, in mental superior qualities, — in one case the voice of the charmer.
In two cases unmistakable proofs of hypermthesia oexualis and of absolute impotence towards the husband
OSBEBBAIi NEUROSES PARjESTHESIA OF FEELING. 79
were found, whilst the merest touch of the other maTi pro- duced orgasm, and the sexual act the acme of pleasure. Of course, in these latter cases absolute sexual abandonment followed.
D. Pantsthesia of Sexual Feeling (Perversion of the Sex* ual Instinct).
In this condition there is perverse emotional colouring of the sexual ideas. Ideas physiologically and psycho- logically accompanied by feelings of disgust, give rise to pleasurable sexual feelings; and the abnormal association finds expression in passionate, uncontrollable emotion. The practical results are perverse acts (perversion of the sexual instinct). This is more easily the case if the pleasurable feelings, increased to passionate intensity, inhibit any op- posing ideas with corresponding feelings of disgust ; or the influence of such opposing conceptions may be rendered impossible on account of the absence or loss of all ideas of morality, aesthetics and law. This loss, however, is only too frequently found where the spring well of ethical ideas and feelings (a normal sexual instinct) has been poisoned from the beginning.
With opportunity for the natural satisfaction of the sexual instinct, every expression of it that does not corre- spond with the purpose of nature — i,e,, propagation — must be regarded as perverse. The perverse sexual acts resulting from paraesthesia are of the greatest importance clinically, socially, and forensically ; and, therefore, they must here receive careful consideration; all aesthetic and moral dis- gust must be overcome.
Perversion of the sexual instinct, as will be seen farther on, is not to be confounded with perversity in the sexual act; since the latter may be induced by conditions other than psycho-pathological. The concrete perverse act, mon- strous as it may be, is clinically not decisive. In order to differentiate between disease {perversion) and vice (per- versity)y one must investigate the whole personality of tht
80
nSTOHOPATHIA 8BZUAUS.
individual and the original motive leading to the perverse act. Therein will be found the key to the diagnosis (v. in- fra),
Parsesthesia may occur in combination with hyperces- thesia* This association seems to be frequent clinically. Sexual acts are then confidently to be expected. The per- verse direction of sexual activity may be toward sexual satisfaction with the opposite or the same sex. Thus two great groups of perversions of sexual life may be distin- guished.
L Sexual Inclination Toward Persons of the Opposite Sex, with Perverse Activity of the Instinct
1. Sadism^ Association of Active Cruelty and Violence
with Lust.
Sadism, especially in its rudimentary manifestations, seems to be of common occurrence in the domain of sexual perversion. Sadism is the experience of sexual pleasurable sensations (including orgasm) produced by acts of cruelty, bodily punishment afflicted on one’s own person or when witnessed in others, be they animals or human beings. It may also consist of an innate desire to humiliate, hurt, wound or even destroy others in order thereby to create sexual pleasure in one’s self.
Thus it will happen that one of the consorts in sexual heat will strike, bite^ or pinch the other, that kissing de- generates into biting. Lovers and young married couples are fond of teasing each other, they wrestle together ‘‘just
*So Jifluisd from the notorious Mo/rguis de Bede, whose obscene novels treat of lust and cruelty. In French literature the expression "Sadism*" has been applied to this perversion. Eulenhurg (“Klin. Handb. dcr Ham und Sexual-orgpane ”) uses the term “active al||[0’ lagnia** in connection with these phenomena.
•Moll, (^ntr. Sexualempfindung, 3d od., p. 160; EraffUEhing ^ Arbeiten** iv., p. 106; Idem, heyden'e Oertnm clinic, vi. Sect. 2, p. 137; Eulenhurg, Grenafragen dee Nerven-und Beelenlehena, xxi. A 1.
SBXUAL INOLUTATION TOWABD THB OPPOSITE SEX. 81
for fun,^^ indulge in all sorts of horseplay- The transition from these atavistic manifestations^ which no doubt be- long to the sphere of physiological sexuality, to the most monstrous acts of destruction of the consort’s life can be readily traced.
Where the husband forces the wife by menaces and other violent means to the conjugal act, we can no longer describe such as a normal physiological manifestation, but must ascribe it to sadistic impulses. It seems probable that this sadistic force is developed by the natural shyness and modesty of woman towards the aggressive manners of the male, especially during the earlier periods of married life and particularly where the husband is hypersexual. Woman no doubt derives pleasure from her innate coyness and the final victory of man affords her intense and refined gratification. Hence the frequent recurrence of these little love comedies.
A further development of these sadistic traces may ba found in men who demand the sexual act in unusual places, for this seems to offer an opportunity to him to show his superiority over woman, to provoke her defense and delight in her sul^equent confusion and abashment
Case 14. One of my patients, hereditarily tainted, a crank, married to an extremely handsome woman of very vivacious temperament, became impotent when he saw her beautiful, pure white skin and her elegant toilet, but was quite potent with any ordinary wench, no matter how dirty {Fetichism). But it would happen that during a lonely walk with her in the country he would suddenly force her to have coitus in a meadow, or behind a shrub. The stronger she refused the more excited he became with per- fect potency. The same would happen in places where there was a risk of being discovered in the act, for instance, in the railway train, in the lavatory of a restaurant. But at home in his own bed he was quite devoid of cupido.
In the civilized man of to-day, in so far as he is un- tainted, associations between lust and cruelty are founds
6
82
PBYCHOFATHIA BSXUALIS.
but in a weak and rather rudimentary degree. If such therefore occur and in fact even light atrocious manifesta- tions thereof, they must be attributed to distorted disposi- tions (sexual and motoric spheres).
They are due to an awakening of latent psychical dispo- sitions, occasioned by external circumstances which in no wise affect the normal individual. They are not accidental deviations of sentiment or instinct in the sense as given by the modem doctrine of association. Sadistic sensations may often be traced back to early childhood and exist dur- ing a period of life when their revival can by no manner of means be attributed to external impressions, much less to sexual temper.
Sadism must, therefore, like Masochism and the anti- pathic sexual instinct, be counted among the originary anomalies of the vita sexualis. It is a disturbance (a de- viation) in the evolution of psychosexual processes sprout- ing from the soil of psychical degeneration.
That lust and cruelty often occur together is a fact that has long been recognised and is frequently observed. Wri- ters of all kinds have called attention to this phenomenon.*
Blumrbder (^T^eber Irresein/^ Leipzig, 1836, p. 51) saw a man who had several wounds in the pectoral muscle, which a woman, in great sexual excitement, had bitten at the acme of lustful feeling during coitus. The same author (^‘Ueber Lust und Schmerz,^^ Friedreich's “Magazin fiir Seelenkunde, 1830, ii., 6) calls especial attention to the psychological connection between lust and murder. In re- lation to this, he especially refers to the Indian myths of Siva and Durga (Death and Lust) ; to human sacrifice with voluptuous mysteries; and to sexual instinct at puberty with a lustful impulse to suicide, with whipping, pinching, and pricking of the genitals, in the blind impulse to satisfy sexual desire. Lombroso (‘Werzeni e Agnoletti,’’ Rome,
^Cf, also Alfred de MuaseVe famous verses to the Andalusian girl: — ^“Qu’elle est superbe en son d^sordre — quand elle tombe las seins nus — Qu'on la voit, btonte, se tordre — dans un baiser de rag» et mordre —
£n hurlaat des mots inconnusl"
SEXUAL lE’OLtE’ATlON’ TOWABD THE OPPOSITE SEX, 88
1874) also cites numerous examples of the occurrence of a desire to murder with greatly increased lust.
Ball quotes in his ^^Clinique St. Anne” the case of a powerful epileptic who during coitus bit off pieces of his consort^s nose and swallowed them.
Ferriani (Archiv. delle psicopatie sessuali I. 1896, p. 106) speaks of a young man who used to wrestle with his inamorata before coitus, bit and pinched her during the act ^‘because he felt otherwise no gratification.” One day, however, he hurt the girl too much and she brought an ac- tion against him.
On the other hand, when homicidal mania has been ex- cited, lust often follows. Lombroso (op. cit.) alludes to the fact mentioned by Mantegazza, that to the terrors of spoliation and plunder by bandits generally are added those of brutal lust and rape.^ These examples form transitions to the pronounced pathological cases.
The examples of the degenerate CsBsars (Nero, Tiberi- us) are also instructive. They took delight in having youths and maidens slaughtered before their eyes. Not less so is the history of that monster, Marschalls Gilles de Kays (Jacob, ‘^Curiosites de Thistoire de France,” Paris, 1858), who was executed in 1440, on account of mutilation and murder, which he had practised for eight years on more than 800 children. As the monster confessed it, it was from reading Suetonius and the descriptions of the orgies of Tiberius, Caracalla, etc., that the idea was gained of locking children in his castles, torturing them, and then killing them. This inhuman wretch confessed that in the commission of these acts he enjoyed inexpressible pleasure. He had two assistants. The bodies of the unfortunate chil-
^During the excitement of battle the Idea of lust forces its way into consciousness. Cf, the description of a battle, by a soldier, by Orillparzer: —
“ And as the signal rang out, the armies met, breast to breast— * lust of the gods — here, there, the murderous steel slays enemy, friend. Given and taken — death and life — with wavering chaag^- wildly raging in frwiay’* (“Dream a Life,” 4ot L).
84
P8YCH0PATHIA SBXUAim
dren were burned^ and only a number of heads of partio- ularly beautiful children were preserved — as memorials.
Cf. Eulenhurg, op. cit. p. 68, where he gives satisfac- tory proofs of Rays’ insanity ; also, in ^^Die Zukunft,
vii., Jahrg. No. 26; — Bossard et Maulle, Gilles de Rays, dit Barbe-Bleu, Paris, 1886 {Champion) ; Michelet, his- toire de France, Tome vi., p. 316-326; Bibliotheque de Criminologie, t. xix., Paris, 1899, p. 245.
In an attempt to explain the association of lust and cruelty, it is necessary to return to a consideration of the quasi-physiological cases, in which, at the moment of most intense lust, very excitable individuals, who are otherwise normal, commit such acts as biting and scratching, which are usually due to anger. It must further be remembered that love and anger are not only the most intense emotions, but also the only two forms of robust (sthenic) emotion. Both seek their object, try to possess themselves of it, and naturally exhaust themselves in a physical effect on it; both throw the psycho-motor sphere into the most intense excitement, and thus, by means of this excitation, reach their normal expression.
From this standpoint it is clear how lust impels to acts that otherwise are expressive of anger.^ The one, like the other, is a state of exaltation, an intense excitation of the entire psycho-motor sphere. Thus there arises an im- pulse to react on the object that induces the stimulus, in every possible way, and with the greatest intensity. Just as maniacal exaltation easily passes to raging destructive* ness, so exaltation of the sexual emotion often induces an impulse to spend itself in senseless and apparently harm- ful acts. To a certain extent these are psychical accom- paniments ; but it is not simply an unconscious excitation of innervation of muscles (which also sometimes occurs as blind violence) ; it is a true hyperbole, a desire to exert
^SchuUt Wiener Med. Wochenflchrift,” No. 49, 1869) reports a temarkable case of a man, aged twenty-eight, who could perform •oitns with his wife only sdttar working himself into an artificial fit of sager.
8BXUAL INOIilKATIOB TOWASD THE OPPOSITE BEX, 85
the utmost possible effect upon the individual giving rise to the stimulus* The most intense means, however, is the in- fliction of pain.
Through such cases of infliction of pain during the most intense emotion of lust, we approach the cases in which a real injury, wound, or death is inflicted on the victim.^ In these cases the impulse to cruelty which may accompany the emotion of lust, becomes unbounded in a psychopathic in- dividual ; and, at the same time, owing to defect of moral feeling, all normal inhibitory ideas are absent or weak- ened.
Such monstrous, sadistic acts have, however, in men, in whom they are much more frequent than in women, another source in physiological conditions. In the inter- course of the sexes, the active or aggressive role belongs to man ; woman remains passive, defensive.* It affords man great pleasure to win a woman, to conquer her ; and in the ars amandi, the modesty of woman, who keeps herself on the defensive until the moment of surrender, is an element of great psychological significance and importance. Under normal conditions man meets obstacles which it is his part to overcome, and for which nature has given him an ag- gressive character. This aggressive character, however, under pathological conditions may likewise be excessively developed, and express itself in an impulse to subdue abso- lutely the object of desire, even to destroy or kill it.*
‘Concerning analogous acts in rutting animals, vide Lomhroeo, ’•The Criminal.”
•Among animals it is always the male who pursues the female with proffers of love. Playful or actual flight of the female is not infrequently observed; and then the relation is like that between the beast of prey and the victim,
■The conquest of woman takes place to-day in the social form of courting, m seduction and deception, etc. From the history of civili- sation and anthropology we know that there have been times, as there arc savages to-day that practice it, where brutal force, robbery, or even blows that rendered a woman powerless, were made use of to obtain lover’s desire. It is possible that tendencies to such out- breaks of sadism are atavistic
In the “ Jahrbflcher fttr Psychologie,” ii., p. 12B, Sohdfer (Jena) refers to the reports of two cases A. Payer. In the first ease
86
F6YCH0PATHIA SEXUALIB*
I£ both these constituent elements occur together — ^the abnormally intensified impulse to a violent reaction toward the object of the stimulus, and the abnormally intensified desire to conquer the woman, — then the most violent out- breaks of sadism occur.
Sadism is thus nothing else than an excessive and mon- strous pathological intensification of phenomena, — possible, too, in normal conditions in rudimental forms, — which ac- company the psychical vita sexualis^ particularly in males. It is of course not at all necessary, and not even the rule, that the sadistic individual should be conscious of his in- stinct. What he feels is, as a rule, only the impulse to cruel and violent treatment of the opposite sex, and the colouring of the idea of such acts with lustful feelings. Thus arises a powerful impulse to commit the imagined deeds. In as far as the actual motives of this instinct are not compre- hended by the individual, the sadistic acts have the char- acter of impulsive deeds.
When the association of lust and cruelty is present, not only does the lustful emotion awaken the impulse to cruelty, but vice versa; cruel ideas and acts of cruelty cause sexual excitement, and in this way are used by perverse individuals.^
states of great sexual excitement were induced by the sight of bat- tles or of paintings of them; in the second, by cruel torturing of small animals. It is added : ** The pleasure of battle and murder is so predominantly an attribute of the male sex throughout the animal kingdom that there can be no question about the close relation exist- ing between this side of the masculine character and male sexuality.
1 believe, too, that by unprejudiced observation I can show that, in men who are mentally and physically absolutely normal, the first indefinite and incomprehensible precursors of sexual excitement may be induced by the reading of exciting scenes of the chase and war — i, e., they give rise to unconscious longings for a kind of satisfaction warlike games (wrestling), in which the fundamental sexual im- pulse to the most perfect and intense contact with a companion is expressed, with the secondary thought of conquest more or less clearly defined.’’
*It sometimes happens that an accidental sight of blood, etc., puts into motion the preformed psychical mechanism of the sadistic 'ndividual and awakens the instinct.
SEXUAL INOLIKATIOK TOWAED THE OPPOBITS SEX. SY
A differentiation of original and acquired cases of sad- ism is scarcely possible. Many individuals^ tainted ab origine, for a long time do everything to conquer the per- verse instinct. If they are potent, they are able for some time to lead a normal vita sexualis, often with the assist- ance of fanciful ideas of a perverse nature. Later, when the opposing motives of an ethical and aesthetic kind have been gradually overcome, and when oft-repeated experience has proved the natural act to give but incomplete satisfac- tion, the abnormal instinct suddenly bursts forth. Owing to this late expression, in acts, of an originally perverse dis- position, the appearances are those of an acquired perver- sion. As a rule, it may be safely assumed that this psycho^ pathic state exists ab origine.
Sadistic acts vary in monstrousness according to tha power exercised by the perverse instinct over the individual thus afflicted, and in accordance with the strength of op- posing ideas that may be present, which nearly always are more or less weakened by original ethical defects, heredi- tary degeneracy, or moral insanity. Thus there arises a long series of forms which begins with capital crime and ends with paltry acts affording merely symbolic satisfaction to the perverse desires of the sadistic individual.
Sadistic acts may be further differentiated according to their nature; either taking place after consummated coitus which leaves the libido nimia unsatisfied; or, with diminished virility, being undertaken to merely stimulate the diminished power; or, finally, where virility is abso- lutely wanting, as becoming simply an equivalent for im- possible coitus, and for the induction of ejaculation. In the last two cases, notwithstanding impotence, there is still intense libido ; or there was, at least, intense libido in the individual at the time when the sadistic acts became a habit. Sexual hypersesthesia must always be regarded as the basis of sadistic inclinations. The impotence which oo curs so frequently in psychopathic and neuropathic indi- viduals here considered, resulting from excesses practised in early youth, is usually dependent upon spinal weakness
as
MTOHOPATHIA SXXUALUU
Often, too, there is a kind of psychical impotence, super- induced by concentration of thought on the perverse act with simultaneous fading of the idea of normal satisfaction. No matter what the external form of the act may be, the mentally perverse predisposition and instinct of the indi- vidual are essential to an understanding of it
(a) Last-Murder^ (Lust Potentiated as Cruelty, Murder- ous Lust Extending to Anthropophagy).
The most horrible example, and one which most point- edly shows the connection between lust and a desire to kill, is the case of Andreas Bichel, which Feuerbach published in his ‘^Aktenmassige Darstellung merkwiirdiger Ver- brechen”.
B. puellas stupratas necavit et dissecuit. With reference to one of his victims, at his examination he expressed him- self as follows: opened her breast and with a knife
cut through the fleshy parts of the body. Then I arranged the body as a butcher does beef, and hacked it with an axe into pieces of a size to fit the hole which I had dug up in the mountain for burying it. I may say that while opening the body I was so greedy that I trembled, and could have cut out a piece and eaten it.”
Lombroso, too (‘‘Geschlechtstrieb und Verbrechen in ihren gegenseitigen Beziehungen”. ^^Qoltdammer's Archiv.” Bd. XXX.), mentions cases falling in the same category. A certain Phillipe indulged in strangling prostitutes, post actum, and said: am fond of women, but it is sport for
me to strangle them after having enjoyed them”.
A certain Grassi (Lombroso, op. cit., p. 12) was one night seized with sexual desire for a relative. Irritated by her remonstrance, he stabbed her several times in the aV
C/. “ Metzger^ 8 ger. Arzneiw., herauagegeben von Remer,” p. 639; *^Klein*8 Annalen,” x., p. 176; xviii., p. 311; Hevnroth, “ System der psych. Med.” p. 270; Veuer Pitaval, 1856, 23 Th. (“Fall Flaize Ferrage”).
SBZTTAX nrouorATioir towaxd thb oppositb sex. 8#
domen with a knife, and also murdered her father and uncle who attempted to hold him bacL Immediately there- after he hastened to visit a prostitute in order to cool in her embrace his sexual passion. But this was not sufficient, for he then murdered his own father and slaughtered sev- eral oxen in the stable.
It cannot be doubted, after the foregoing, that a great number of so-called lust murders depend upon combined hypersesthesia and parsesthesia sexualis. As a result of this perverse colouring of* the feelings, further acts of bestiality with the corpse may result — e.g., cutting it up and wallowing in the intestines. The case of Bichel points to this possibility.
A modem example is that of Menesclou (“Annales d’hygiene publique”), who was examined by Lasegue, Brouardel and Motet, declared to be mentally sound, and executed.
Case 15. A four-year-old girl was missing from her parents’ home, 15th April, 1880. On 16th April, Menes' clou, one of the occupants of the house, was arrested. The forearm of the child was found in his pocket, and the head and entrails, in a half-charred condition, were taken from the stove. Other parts of the body were found in the water- closet. The genitals could not be found. M., when asked their whereabouts, became embarrassed. The circum- stances, as well as an obscene poem found on his person, left no doubt that he had violated the child and then mur- dered her. M. expressed no remorse, asserting that his deed was an unhappy accident. His intelligence was limited. He presented no anatomical signs of degeneration; some- what deaf and scrofulous.
Age twenty.
Convulsions at the age of nine months. Later he suf- fered from disturbed sleep (enuresis noctuma) ; was nerv- ous, and developed tardily and imperfectly. With puberty he became irritable, showed evil inclinations, was lazy, in- tractable, and in all trades proved to be of no use. He grew
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PSYCHOPATHIA SXXITALIS.
no better even in the House of Correction. He was made a marine, but there, too, he proved useless. When he re- turned home he stole from his parents, and spent his time in bad company. He did not run after women, but gave himself up passionately to masturbation, and occasionally indulged in sodomy with bitches. His mother suffered with mania menstrualis periodica. An uncle was insane, and another a drunkard. The examination of M/s brain showed morbid changes of the frontal lobes, of the first and second temporal convolutions, and of a part of the occipital con- volutions.
Case 16. Alton, a clerk in England, went for a walk out of town. He lured a child into a thicket. After- wards at his office he made this entry in his note-book: ^‘Killed to-day a young girl; it was fine and hot.’^ The child was missed, searched for, and found cut into pieces. Many parts, and among them the genitals, could not be found. A. did not show the slightest trace of emotion, and gave no explanation of the motive or circumstances of his horrible deed. He was a psychopathic individual, and oc- casionally subject to fits of depression with tcedium vitce. His father had had an attack of acute mania. A near rela- tive suffered from mania with homicidal impulses. A. was executed.
Case 17. Jack the Eipper. — On December 1, 1887, July 7, August 8, September 30, one day in the month of October and on the 9th of November, 1888 ; on the 1st of June, the 17th of July and the 10th of September, 1889, the bodies of women were found in various lonely quarters of London ripped open and mutilated in a peculiar fashion. The murderer has never been found. It is probable that he first cut the throats of his victims, then ripped open the abdomen and groped among the intestines. In some in- stances he cut off the genitals and carried them away; in others he only tore them to pieces and left them behind. He does not seem to have had sexual intercourse with his
SXXTTAL INOLIITATIOK TOWABD THB OPPOSITE SEX. 91
victims, but very likely the murderous act and subsequent mutilation of the corpse were equivalents for the sexual act. {McDonald, le criminal type, 2 edit., Lyon, 1884; — Spitzha, The Journal of Mental and Nervous Diseases, 1888, December ; — Kierman, The Medical Standard, 1888, Nov. and Dec.)
Case 18. Vacher, the Ripper. — On the 31st August, 1895, Portalier, seventeen years old, a shepherd, was found naked in the field. The belly was ripped open and the body bore other wounds besides. Examination showed that the victim had been strangled first. On the 4th August, 1897, a tramp, named Vacher, was arrested on suspicion of having committed this crime. He confessed to it as well as to numerous other acts of a similar nature that had been perpetrated in various parts of France since 1894. He claimed that at the time when he committed the crimes he suffered from temporary insanity and irresistible impulse, in fact, was a madman. Medical examination, however, proved that Vacher was mentis compos when he committed these atrocious deeds, fied after their commis- sion and had a very clear memory of the facts.
V. was bom in 1869 of honourable parents and be- longed to a mentally sound family. He never had a severe illness, was from his earliest infancy vicious, lazy and shy of work. When twenty he had immorally assaulted a small child. During his military service he had gained fur him- self a very bad reputation and was in 1893 discharged from his regiment on account of ^^psychical disturbances” (con- fused talk, persecution-mania, threatening language, ex- treme irritability). In 1893 he wounded a girl because she refused to marry him, then made an attempt at suicide (he shot himself through the right ear, which left him deaf on that side and produced facial paralysis). He was sent to an insane asylum and there treated for persecution- mania. On April 1, 1894, he was dismissed as cured. He began to tramp about the country and committed the fol- lowing horrible crimes : On March 20, 1894, he strangled
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PSTOHOPATHIA BBTUAIiIS.
Delhomme^ twenty-one years old, cut her throat, trampled upon her abdomen, tore out a portion of her right breast and then had coitus with the corpse. The same atrocity, but without ravaging the bodies, he committed on Novem- ber 20, 1894, on a girl of the name of Marcel, 13 years of age, and on May 12, 1895, on another girl named Mortureux, 17 years of age. On August 24, 1895, he strangled and then ravaged a lady of the name of Morand, 68 years old, and on the 22d he cut the throat of AUaise, a sixteen year old girl and attempted to rip her abdomen open. On September 29, he committed the same crime — as later on on Portalier — on Palet, a fifteen-year-old boy, but in this instance he also cut off the genitals of the boy and sexually assaulted the corpse.
On the 1st of March, 1896, he attempted rape on Deronet, a girl eleven years old, but was scared off by the field police. On the 10th of September, he committed his usual atrocity on a Mrs. Mounier, just married, nine- teen years of age, and on the 1st of October, on Rodier, a shepherdess, fourteen years of age. He cut out her genitals and carried them away. Toward the end of May, 1897, he killed a tramp boy, fourteen years old, named Beaupied, by cutting his throat. The corpse he threw down into a well. On June 18th he murdered a shepherd boy, thirteen years old, named Laurent, and committed pederasty on the corpse. Soon afterward he made an attempt on a Mrs. Plantier, but she was rescued. Unfortunately they allowed him to go unpunished.
Lacassagne, Professor of Forensic Medicine in Lyon, Pierrel, Professor of Psychiatry, and Behatel, specialist on insanity, were the experts in this atrocious murder trial. They found no hereditary taints, no cerebral dis- ease, nor traces of epilepsy. V. was not particularly bright, very irascible from his earliest years, vicious and fond of maltreating animals. No one retained him long in service. He entered a monastery, but was soon dismissed as he began to masturbate his comrades. He could not find em- ployment on account of immorality and ill temper. He
SBZITAI. INOUlS^ATIOJr TOWABD THE OFPOBITX SBZ. 98
was not a drinker. In the army he was feared and shunned. One day when he was disappointed by not be- ing made a corporal, he flew into a passion, attacked his superior and became delirious. He was taken to the in- firmary and thence sent to the insane asylum. His com- rades did not consider him normal During his spells of rage he was uncontrollable and considered dangerous. He always threatened others with cutting their throats, and was thought capable of doing such an act. He slept badly, constantly dreamed of murder, and often was delirious dur- ing the night, so that no one cared for sleeping near him.
At the asylum he was found to suffer from persecution- mania and was considered a dangerous character. Never- theless he was dismissed as cured.
Subsequently he became guilty of eleven murders, which are acts of sadism, lust murders. They consisted of strangling, cutting of the throat and ripping open of the abdomen, mutilation of the corpse, especially the genitals, eventually gratification of the sexual lust on the corpse.
It was definitely proved that V. acted in cold blood, was quite conscious of his actions and suffered from no psychical abnormality.
He committed the crimes in various sections of France, traversing the country in every direction.
There were no marks of anatomical degeneration. His genitals were normally developed. In confinement he was lazy, irascible and quite intractable. Out of sheer stub’ bomness and because he thought he had been slighted, he refused on one occasion all food for a period of seven days. On another occasion he flew into a frightful rage when permission to go to church was refused him. He spoke cynically of his crimes, showed no remorse, insisted that they were the outcome of madness and insanity, played the insane, hoping thus to be sent to an insane asy- lum whence escape is easier. The experts could establish no symptoms of mental disturbance.
Resume of the experts: — is neither an epileptic nor subject to an impulsive disease. He is an immoral,
04
MTOHOPATHIA SKZUALXS.
passionate manj who once temporarily suffered from a depressing persecution-mania, coupled with an impulse to suicide. Of this he was cured, and thereafter became re- sponsible for his actions. His crimes are those of an antisocial, sadistic, bloodthirsty being, who considers him- self privileged to commit these atrocities because he was once upon a time treated in an asylum for insanity, and thereby escaped well merited punishment. He is a com- mon criminal and there are no ameliorating circumstances to be found in his favour.” — V. was sentenced to death. (Archives d’ anthropologic criminelle, xiii., No. 78.)
In such cases it may even happen that appetite for the flesh of the murdered victim arises, and in consequence of this perverse colouring of the idea, parts of the body may be eaten.
Case 19. Leger, vine-dresser, aged twenty-four. From youth moody, silent, shy of people. He started out in search of a situation. Wandering about eight days in the forest he there caught a girl twelve years old, violated her, mutilated her genitals, tore out her heart, ate of it, drank the blood, and buried the remains. Arrested, at first he lied, but finally confessed his crime with cynical cold-bloodedness. He listened to his sentence of death with indifference, and was executed. At the post-mortem examination Esquirol found morbid adhesions between the cerebral membranes and the brain {Oeorget, ‘‘Darstellung der Prozesse Leger, Feldtmann/' etc., Darmstadt, 1827).
Case 20. Tirsch, hospital beneficiary of Prag, aged fifty-five, always silent, peculiar, coarse, very irritable, grumbling, revengeful, was sentenced to twenty years^ imprisonment for violating a girl ten years old. He had attracted attention on account of outbursts of anger from insignificant causes, and also on account of tcedium vitas. In 1864, on account of the refusal of an offer of marriage which he made to a widow, he developed a hatred toward women, and on the 8th of July be went about with the
BBZUAL INOLIKATION TOWABD THX OPPOSITE BEX. 95
intention of killing one of this hated sex. Vetulam occur* rentem in silvam allexit, coitum, poposcit, renitentem pro9* travit, jugulum femince compressit ^'furore captu8*\ Cad- aver virga hetulos desecta verberare voluit nequetamen id perfecit, quia conscientia sua haec fieri vetuit, cultelh mammas et genitalia desecta domi cocta proximis diehus cum globis comedit. On the 12th of September, when he was arrested, the remains of this meal were found. He gave as the motive of this act ^‘inner impulse.” He him- self wished to be executed, because he had always been an outcast. In confinement he showed great emotional irrita- bility and occasional outbursts of fury, preceded by refusal of food, which made isolation, lasting several days, neces- sary. It was authoritatively established that the most of his earlier excesses were coincident with outbreaks of ex- citement and fury (Maschka, ^^Prager Vierteljahrsschrift,” 1866, i., p. 79. ^'Gauster bei Maschka, Handb. der gerichtl. Medicin,” iv., p. 489).
In other cases of lust-murder, for physical and mental reasons (vide supra), violation is omitted, and the sadistic crime alone becomes the equivalent of coitus. The pro» totype of such cases is the following one of Verzeni. The life of his victim hung on the rapid or retarded occurrence of ejaculation. Since this remarkable case presents all the peculiarities which modern science knows concerning the relation of lust to lust-murder with anthropophagy, and especially since it was carefully studied, it receives detailed description here: —
Case 21. Vincenz Verzeni, bom in 1849 ; since Jan- uary 11th, 1872, in prison; was accused (1) of an attempt to strangle his nurse Marianne, four years ago, while she lay sick in bed; (2) of a similar attempt on a married woman, Arsufii, aged twenty-seven; (3) of an attempt to strangle a married woman. Gala, by grasping her throat while kneeling on her abdomen; (4) on suspicion of the following murders : —
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PSYOHOPATHIA SBXUAI^IS.
In Deoember a iourteen-yearold girl, Johanna Motta, set out for a neighbouring village between seven and eight o^clock in the morning. As she did not return, her master set out to find her, and discovered her body near the village, lying by a path in the fields. The corpse was frightfully mutilated with numerous wounds. The intestines and genitals had been torn from the open body, and were found near by. The nakedness of the body and erosions on the thighs made it seem probable that there had been an attempt at rape; the mouth, filled with earth, pointed to suffocation. In the neighbourhood of the body, under a pile of straw, were found a portion of flesh tom from the right calf, and pieces of clothing. The perpetrator of the deed remained undiscovered.
On 28th August, 1871, a married woman, Frigeni, aged twenty-eight, set out into the fields early in the morning. As she did not return by eight o’clock, her husband started out to fetch her. He found her a corpse, lying naked in the field, with the mark of a thong around her neck, with which she had been strangled, and with numerous wounds. The abdomen had been ripped open, and the intestines were hanging out.
On August 29th, at noon, as Maria Previtali, aged nineteen, went through a field, she was followed by her cousin, Verzeni. He dragged her into a field of grain, threw her to the ground and began to choke her. As he let go of her for a moment to ascertain whether any one was near, the girl got up and, by her supplicating entreaty, in- duced Verzeni to let her go, after he had pressed her hands together for some time.
Verzeni was brought before a court. He was then twenty-two years old. Cranium of more than average size, but asymmetrical. The right frontal bone narrower and lower than the left, the right frontal prominence being less developed, and the right ear smaller than the left (by 1 centimetre in length and 3 centimetres in breadth) ; lx)th ears defective in the inferior half of the helix ; the right temporal artery somewhat atheromatous. Bull-necked;
SEXUAL iNOLINATIOir TOWABD THE OPPOSITE SEX. 97
exK>rmoiis development of the zygomce and inferior maxilla; penis greatly developed, frwnum wanting ; slight divergent alternating strabismus (insufficiency of the internal rectus muscle, and myopia). Lombroso concluded from these signs of degeneration, that there was a congenital arrest of development of the right frontal bone. As seemed probable, Verzeni bad a bad ancestry — two uncles were cretins ; a third, microcephalic, beardless, one testicle wanting, the other atrophic. The father showed traces of pellagrous degeneration, and had an attack of hypo- chondria pellagrosa. A cousin suifered from cerebral hypersemia ; another was a confirmed thief.
Verzeni’s family was bigoted and low-minded. He him- self had ordinary intelligence ; knew how to defend himself well ; sought to prove an alibi and cast suspicion on others. There was nothing in his past that pointed to mental dis- ease, but his character was peculiar. He was silent and inclined to be solitary. In prison he was cynical. He masturbated, and made every effort to gain sight of women.
Verzeni finally confessed his deeds and their motive. The commission of them gave him an indescribably pleasant (lustful) feeling, which was accompanied by erec- tion and ejaculation. As soon as he had grasped his vic- tim by the neck, sexual sensations were experienced. It was entirely the same to him, with reference to these sen- sations, whether the women were old, young, ugly, or beautiful. Usually, simply choking them had satisfied him, and he then had allowed his victims to live; in the two cases mentioned, the sexual satisfaction was delayed, and he had continued to choke them until they died. The gratification experienced in this garrotting was greater than in masturbation. The abrasions of the skin on Motta’s thighs were produced by his teeth, whilst sucking her blood in most intense lustful pleasure. He had tom out a piece of flesh from her calf and taken it with him to roast at home ; but on the way he hid it under the straw- stack, for fear his mother might suspect him. He also carried pieces of the clothing and intestines some distance,
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PSYCHOPATHIA 8BXUALIS.
because it gave him great pleasure to smell and touch them. The strength which he possessed in these moments of intense lustful pleasure was enormous. He had never been a fool; while committing his deeds he saw nothing around him (apparently as a result of intense sexual ex- citement, annihilation of perception — instinctive action). After such acts he was always very happy, enjoying a feeling of great satisfaction. He had never had pangs of conscience. It had never occurred to him to touch the genitals of the martyred women, or to violate his victims. It had satisfied him to throttle them and suck their blood. These statements of this modem vampire seem to rest on truth. Normal sexual impulses seem to have remained foreign to him. Two sweethearts that he had, he was satisfied to look at; it was very strange to him that he had no inclination to strangle them or press their hands, but he had not had the same pleasure with them as with his victims. There was no trace of moral sense, remorse and the like.
Verzeni said himself that it would be a good thing if he were to be kept in prison, because with freedom he could not resist his impulses. Verzeni was sentenced to imprisonment for life {Lomhroso, ^‘Verzeni e Agnoletti,^^ Rome, 1873). The confessions which Verzeni made after his sentence are interesting: —
I had an unspeakable delight in strangling women, ex- periencing during the act erections and real sexual pleas- ure. It was even a pleasure only to smell female clothing. The feeling of pleasure while strangling them was much greater than that which I experienced while masturbating.
I took great delight in drinking Motta’s blood. It also gave me the greatest pleasure to pull the hair-pins out of the hair of my victims.
'T took the clothing and intestines, because of the pleasure it gave me to smell and touch them. At last my mother came to suspect me, because she noticed spots of semen on my shirt after each murder or attempt at one.
I am not crazy, but in the moment of strangling my victims
SEXUAL IBTCLIlSrATIOH TOWABD THE OPPOSITE ftif-Tt 99
I saw nothing else. After the commission of the deeds I was satisfied and felt well. It never occurred to me to touch or look at the genitals or such things. It satisfied me to seize the women by the neck and suck their blood. To this very day I am ignorant of how a woman is formed. During the strangling and after it, I pressed myself on the entire body without