The Rape of the A*P*E*

The Rape of the A*P*E* (American Puritan Ethic) is Allan Sherman's 1973 examination of sexuality and sexual repression in American society. The book tracks the evolution of American attitudes toward sex from 1945 through the sexual revolution of the 1960s. Sherman, best known as a musical satirist, approaches this cultural history with his characteristic wit while maintaining scholarly rigor in his research and analysis. The text combines historical documentation, social commentary, and personal observations about changing sexual mores in post-war America. The book's publication by Playboy Press generated significant media attention, with Sherman conducting numerous interviews and radio appearances despite his declining health. The provocative title and comprehensive scope of the work attracted both praise and controversy upon its release. This work stands as a significant document of mid-20th century American social transformation, offering insights into how rapid cultural changes affected traditional values and behaviors. The text explores tensions between puritanical heritage and modern sexual liberation.

Readers note this 1973 social commentary on American sexual attitudes blends humor with historical analysis. Some find it dated but insightful. Readers appreciated: - Sherman's wit and comedic writing style - Historical documentation of changing sexual norms - Blend of research and personal observations - Non-judgmental examination of taboo topics Common criticisms: - Humor feels forced at times - Writing style rambles and goes off-topic - Some passages haven't aged well - Second half loses focus Ratings: Goodreads: 3.6/5 (48 ratings) Amazon: 4.1/5 (12 ratings) Sample reader comments: "Sherman captures the absurdity of America's sexual revolution with sharp humor" - Goodreads reviewer "Started strong but lost steam halfway through" - Amazon review "Important historical perspective but tries too hard to be funny" - LibraryThing user The book remains in print but is not widely read today, with most reviews coming from the 1970s-80s.

Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex* (*But Were Afraid to Ask) by David Reuben Chronicles sexual attitudes and misconceptions in American society during the same era as Sherman's work, using medical expertise to address cultural taboos.

The Joy of Sex by Alex Comfort Documents the sexual revolution's impact on intimate relationships during the 1970s through a combination of historical context and practical information.

Making Love: Sexual Love the Divine Way by Barry Long Examines the intersection of sexuality and social values during the post-sexual revolution period from a cultural-historical perspective.

Gay New York: Gender, Urban Culture, and the Making of the Gay Male World by George Chauncey Tracks the evolution of sexual identity and social norms in American urban society through detailed historical research and cultural analysis.

Sex in History by Reay Tannahill Presents a comprehensive examination of human sexuality across cultures and time periods with particular focus on Western social attitudes and restrictions.

🔸 Allan Sherman, better known for his hit song "Hello Muddah, Hello Fadduh," shifted from comedy music to serious social commentary with this book, showing a different side of his creative abilities. 🔸 The book's title uses asterisks in "A*P*E*" as a play on words, standing for "American Puritan Ethic," while also suggesting the evolutionary metaphor of humans as primates. 🔸 The book was published in 1973, the same year as the landmark Roe v. Wade decision, coincidentally capturing a pivotal moment in American sexual politics. 🔸 Playboy Press, which commissioned the book, was expanding beyond magazines into serious publishing during this period, aiming to establish intellectual credibility alongside its more risqué content. 🔸 Sherman conducted extensive research at the Kinsey Institute while writing the book, incorporating scientific data to support his cultural observations about American sexuality.