Cultural History of Twin Beds

The book "A Cultural History of Twin Beds" explores the rise and fall of twin beds as a popular sleeping arrangement for married couples between 1870 and 1970, challenging preconceptions about intimacy, sexuality, domesticity, and hygiene. It reveals the beliefs and practices that made twin beds an ideal sleeping solution and offers an accessible and rigorous account of the curious history of twin beds.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 296 pages
Publication date: 31 March 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

A Cultural History of Twin Beds delves into the intricate tapestry of our most deeply held assumptions about intimacy, sexuality, domesticity, and hygiene by tracing the rise and fall of twin beds as a favored sleeping arrangement for married couples between 1870 and 1970. Contemporary perceptions of the twin bed revolve around their utilization by couples who opt for separate sleeping spaces. However, for the better part of a century, twin beds were not merely regarded as acceptable but were actively celebrated as a symbol of a modern and forward-thinking couple. But what fueled this innovative concept? And why did so many married couples ultimately choose to abandon the twin bed?

In this captivating book, Hilary Hinds offers a profound exploration into the intricate interplay of beliefs and practices that rendered twin beds an ideal sleeping solution. Through meticulous close readings of marriage guidance and medical advice books, furnishing catalogues, novels, films, and newspapers, this volume presents an accessible and rigorous account of the curious history of twin beds. This is a must-read for those with a keen interest in cultural history, sociology, anthropology, and psychology.

Weight: 448g
Dimension: 154 x 235 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367784805