What were some contemporary views of the respective natures of men and women current at the time of the publication of this book in 1908? What, for example, had Havelock Ellis and Karl Pearson suggested about the nature of the sexes? Had continental doctors addressed the issue more tolerantly? (Pearson's "Men's and Women's Club" had disbanded because of disagreements.)
Chapters 1 and 2: Introductory, The Intermediate Sex
What claims does Carpenter make for the pervasiveness of homosexuality? Are these too limited by modern standards?
What does Carpenter claim will be the moral effects of homosexuality in society? What roles will the most enlightened homosexual persons play?
What does he seem to mean by an "intermediate sex"? Does this overlap what is now considered the condition of transgender?
Does Carpenter seem to include lesbianism equally in his descriptions?
What does he see as the prominent qualities of homosexual persons? Does this involve stereotyping? Is he consistent in adducing the special traits of "the intermediate sex," then noting that the majority do not fit these stereotypes?
Would such stereotypes be familiar to Victorians, based on gender norms for men and women?
How is the word "normal" used? Does this cause problems of its own?
What do you make of Carpenter's insistence that the homoerotic temperament is often divorced from sexuality and sexual practice?
What does he see as the relationship between Urnings and women?
What does he see as the mental characteristics of lesbian women?
Chapter 5: The Place of the Uranian in Society
What are some famous individuals whom Carpenter cites as Uranian?
In what occupations does he believe Urnings excel?
How does he deal with the issue of pederasty? Large age differences in attachment?
Who do his appeals for universal brotherhood and equal relations place a special emphasis on homosexuality rather than on the fellowship of humankind?
What topics/interests do Urnings generally avoid, according to Carpenter? (party politics)
What is the Urning's special gift? (acts on basis of love)
Does he feel homosexual unions tend to be permanent? (yes)
Would Carpenter have approved of campaigns for gay marriage? (yes)