The anomaly in most cases consists of a malformation of the external genitalia.

A prolonged clitoris, prolapsed ovaries, grossness of figure, and hirsute appearance have been accountable for many supposed instances of hermaphrodites.

On the other hand, a cleft scrotum, an ill-developed penis, perhaps hypospadias or epispadias, rotundity of the mammae, and feminine contour have also provoked accounts of similar instances.

Some cases have been proved by dissection to have been true hermaphrodites, portions or even entire genitalia of both sexes having been found.
Numerous accounts, many mythical, but always interesting, are given of these curious persons.

They have been accredited with having performed the functions of both father and mother, notwithstanding the statements of some of the best authorities that they are always sterile.
Observation has shown that the sexual appetite diminishes in proportion to the imperfections in the genitalia, and certainly many of these persons are sexually indifferent.
We give descriptions of a few of the most famous or interesting instances of hermaphroditism.