This volume investigates the historical, cultural, and social development of homosexuality across global civilizations. Wayne R. Dynes, a scholar in the field of gay studies, compiles an extensive array of entries to provide a comprehensive reference framework. The text synthesizes historical data, biographical sketches, and sociological concepts to document the evolution of same-sex identity and behavior. It serves as a foundational academic resource for understanding the breadth of queer history and theory.

Scholars and researchers frequently cite this work as a foundational reference text for the study of gay history and culture. Readers often note the academic density of the prose and the extensive scope of the entries provided.