The 1600s Were a Watershed for Swear Words (2022)

In the 16th century, swear words were predominantly focused on what was sacred or scatological. The most offensive words involved the name of God, while bodily functions became the primary focus in the 18th century. Obscene language evolved over time, with words once considered polite becoming crass. The use of expletives evolved throughout history, reflecting changing societal norms. Interestingly, insults regarding reputation, such as ‘whore’ or ‘thief,’ held greater weight than graphic language. The nuances of swearing demonstrate a fascinating shift in language. Suzannah Lipscomb delves into the historical context of taboo words, shedding light on the evolution of profanity.

https://www.historytoday.com/archive/explicit-content

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