It's not possible to know the exact date either of the life of Vatsyayana or the the date of his writings. Scholars guestimate that he must have lived between the first and sixth century of the Christian era. This is true, although scattered throughout are descriptions of many sexual positions with amusing names applicable to the era. The Kama Sutra is a manual intended to educate young Hindu men in the ways of love and Sex in the customs of two thousand years ago. I think this book has taken on mythical status in our society for two reasons; One: It's the oldest surviving, and therefore in people's minds, the first, book written on sexual etiquette and technique. Two: It's language is anchient and therefore very hard to comprehend. Most reader's I've spoken with, just skim to the good parts. The other Parts of this book are fascinating from a historical perspective, but not useful as a 'manual' in today's society. It opens a window to Indian Hindu society two thousand years ago, and also a window into human sexuality that is fascinating when compared to contemporary times. On Biting, and the ways of Love to be employed with regard to Women of different countries 6. On the various ways of Lying down, and the different kinds of Congress 7. On the various ways of Striking, and of the Sounds appropriate to them 8. Courtship, and the manifestation of the feelings by outward signs and deeds 4. On things to be done only by the Man, and the acquisition of the Girl thereby. Also what is to be done by a Girl to gain over a Man and subject him to her 5. On the manner of living of a virtuous Woman, and of her behaviour during the absence of her Husband 2. On the conduct of the eldest Wife towards the other Wives of her Husband, and of the younger Wife towards the elder ones. About making Acquaintance with the Woman, and of the efforts to gain her over 3. Of the Means of getting Money; of the Signs of a Lover who is beginning to be Weary, and of the way to get rid of him 4. On Personal Adornment, subjugating the hearts of others, and of tonic medicines 2. Of the means of exciting Desire, and of the ways of enlarging the Lingam. Most reader's I've spoken with, just skim to the good parts. The other Parts of this book are fascinating from a historical perspective, but not useful as a 'manual' in today's society. Kama Sutra