The Roaring Twenties heralded a profound transformation in societal attitudes toward sex. The widespread adoption of automobiles and the emergence of glamorous film stars on the Silver Screen revolutionized perceptions of sexuality.
Sex became a ubiquitous topic, capturing the attention of both the younger generation and their elders. On college campuses, upperclassmen frequently counseled freshmen and sophomores to “moderate” their levels of “petting.”
The Changing Landscape of Sexual Norms
During the 1920s, a growing interest in the study of sex emerged. Universities became hotbeds of candid discussions about sexual behaviors, with many students openly sharing experiences of “petting parties” during weekends. While the accuracy of these accounts varied, there was a clear cultural shift away from prudishness toward a more open acknowledgment of sexual activity.
A female college student from the mid-1920s encapsulated the prevailing sentiment: “It’s terribly exciting. We get such a thrill. I think it is natural to want nice men to kiss you, so why not do what is natural?” This attitude reflected the era’s growing comfort with sexual expression among the youth.
The Rise of the “Sex Novel” and the Femme Fatale
The 1920s also witnessed the emergence of the “sex novel,” a genre that mirrored the shifting moral attitudes of the time. These novels often featured the femme fatale and became a focal point of both fascination and controversy.
Authors like D.H. Lawrence, whose works such as “Lady Chatterley’s Lover” challenged traditional norms, faced significant criticism from moralists. Elizabeth Drew noted that the decade was characterized by a “new consciousness of sex,” with many of these novels being predominantly read by women.
Despite widespread condemnation from the press, which labeled such literature as “pornocrasy” and “vile,” the popularity of these books surged. Writers like Sir Philip Gibbs, Gilbert Frankau, Elinor Glyn, and H. De Vere Stackpole were often criticized for their provocative narratives, which included themes of infidelity, sado-masochism, and passionate escapades.
The Impact of Cinema: The Birth of the Sex Symbol
As the novel genre gained traction, the film industry also began to reflect and amplify the sexual dynamics of the era. Movies brought sex into the public eye like never before, with stars such as Greta Garbo, Colleen Moore, Clara Bow, and Louise Brooks embodying a new standard of sex appeal.
Billie Melman, in “Flappers and Nymphs,” describes these actresses as the epitome of sexual allure, capturing the fascination of millions. The cinematic portrayal of sexuality contributed to the expansion of consumer culture, as more women sought to emulate their glamorous idols.
The Flapper: A Symbol of Sexual Liberation
Against this backdrop of shifting cultural norms, the flapper emerged as a powerful symbol of sexual liberation and modern independence. Flappers, often scrutinized for their appearance, behavior, and defiance of societal expectations, represented a new era of freedom and self-expression.
These women embraced a lifestyle focused on pleasure and personal autonomy, challenging conventional moral standards. The flapper became emblematic of a broader movement towards sexual empowerment, with women increasingly asserting their independence and rejecting traditional gender roles.
The 1920s thus marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of sexual norms. With sex becoming a central theme in media and public discourse, the era witnessed a significant transformation in societal attitudes, reflecting a complex interplay between sexual liberation and evolving gender identities.