The idea of human cloning has fascinated writers and philosophers for centuries and has been dramatized in myths and fiction. This volume traces these fictional illustrations of human cloning from some of the earlier manifestations to more contemporary responses. Using a feminist and psychoanalytic perspective, this book examines parthenogenesis and other related fantasies, and argues that cloning could be an important tool in helping women achieve a more egalitarian status. Ferreira contemplates the new psychological implication for humanity that will arise as a result of the development and application of genetic engineering and the possible implementation of human cloning.

This is one of the first books wholly devoted to a specifically literary analysis of the many issues surrounding the fantasy of human cloning, which could in fact become a reality at any moment. It makes it a timely contribution to the controversial political, social, ethical, cultural, and philosophical debate on cloning and its numerous ramifications.