Book 4, Book 4 : Chapter 3, Managing the Sexual Desires Summary and Analysis

The discourse from the preceding summary chapter continues. There is a reminder to Emile to be humble and honest. Few things will serve him in such good stead as these simple yet powerful principles. The discussion ends, and the mode shifts so that the exposition is once again coming from Rousseau as himself with respect to being Emile's tutor.

During this final third of the fourth book, the author addresses the reality of Emile's emerging sexuality and the related desires. It is worth noting Rousseau's culture and personal experience was more libertine and in this respect readers of today may find that he comes out of cultural condition which may be surprisingly familiar, at least to some. It is also worth reminding readers that the book's writer is a...