Queer Criticism

All human beings have the potential for same-sex desire or for sexual activity that does not fit a heterosexual framework”    (Tyson 306).

Description of Theory:

Queer refers to writings that question the socially accepted heteronormative (straight) identities involving gender and sexuality. The word ‘queer’ has been seen as an attempt to re-appropriate the word from its use in a homophobic manner.  Even though the word ‘queer’ has been a word of oppression, it has now become a word of social change to show how the heterosexists are quick to label and judge “the other” and therefore should not be allowed to define the ‘queer’ experience as the true concept of queerness accepts sexual identity as fluid.

Benefit of Theory:

This theory is a stepping stone for change and equality for those deemed as the  “others”.

Disadvantage of Theory:

This theory tends to focus more on the white gay male experience as the general accepted criteria of gayness, not much for lesbians, or queer persons of color.

Questions of Queer Theorists to Interpret a Text:

These  questions help readers identify and empathize with the LGBTQ community and their oppression.

  • In the text are their scenes of homosocial bonding – strong emotional ties between same-sex characters that may seem subtle or overtly homoerotic?
  • Are there any “doubles”, same-sex characters who look alike, act alike, or have parallel experiences?
  • Are there any signs of subtle homophobia?  Is this discomfort surrounded by ideological agendas – politics, religion, etc.?

Notable Theorist/s:

Michel Foucault defined sex, gender, and sexual difference as products derived from society and not natural as they were never giving meaning until society dictated what is normative and therefore socially accepted in the mass populous.

 

Judith Butler argued that gender and sexuality are social and performed roles derived from culture and media.  She coined the phrase, “gender trouble” to challenge the exaggerated ideals of masculinity and femininity and the perception that only heterosexuality or heteronormativity is or should be the norm.