A Critical Introduction to Queer Theory

by Nikki Sullivan

Explores the ways in which sexuality, subjectivity and sociality have been discursively produced in various historical and cultural contexts

The book begins by putting gay and lesbian sexuality and politics in historical context and demonstrates how and why queer theory emerged in the West in the late twentieth century. Sullivan goes on to provide a detailed overview of the complex ways in which queer theory has been employed, covering a diversity of key topics including: race, sadomasochism, straight sex, fetishism, community, popular culture, transgender, and performativity. Each chapter focuses on a distinct issue or topic, provides a critical analysis of the specific ways in which it has been responded to by critics (including Freud, Foucault, Derrida, Judith Butler, Jean-Luc Nancy, Adrienne Rich and Laura Mulvey), introduces key terms, and uses contemporary cinematic texts as examples.

• ISBN13: 9780814798416
• Publish Date: 1 October 2003 (first published 17 June 2003)
• Publish Status: Active
• Out of Print: 22 March 2023
• Publish Country: US
• Imprint: New York University Press
• Format: Paperback (US Trade)
• Pages: 232
• Language: English

Reviews

[celinenyx]

Good introductory text on queer theory, its scope and its aims. Ironically, it never truly addresses why queer theory is important, or what it adds methodically. Often it seemed as if "queering" could be used synonymously as "deconstruct". A Critical Introduction to Queer Theory is a relatively accessible place to start, but ultimately unsatisfying.