This dissertation explores queer identity construction using theories of gender fluidity and
performance. The research suggests that binary structures such as masculine/feminine,
male/female, and heterosexual/homosexual, restrict the expansion of queer gender identities. A
deconstructive theoretical framework based predominantly on the philosophy of Judith Butler is
applied to a selection of contemporary lesbian novels. The textual analysis of lesbian,
transgender and transsexual characters focuses on the ways in which binary structures are
challenged by the multiplicity of gender expressions depicted within a variety of sociopolitical
contexts. The reality of gender-based violence is investigated as a significant consequence of
hegemonic power structures. The charge against butch/femme identity as imitative of
heterosexual norms is challenged by demonstrating how such a category functions as a parodic
subversion of heteronormative ideals. Female masculinity is also presented as a powerful identity
category that inverts expectations of dominant masculinity, while allowing for an interrogation of
the connection between sex and gender. From the arguments presented in this dissertation, what
emerges very clearly is that queer gender identities empower the LGBTI (lesbian, gay, bisexual,
transsexual and intersex) community when identity is freed from the constraints of
heteronormative discourse.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:netd.ac.za/oai:union.ndltd.org:ufs/oai:etd.uovs.ac.za:etd-10042011-092009 |
| Date | 04 October 2011 |
| Creators | Calitz, Martha Lydia Talita |
| Contributors | Dr M Brooks, Ms MMG Lovisa |
| Publisher | University of the Free State |
| Source Sets | South African National ETD Portal |
| Language | en-uk |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | text |
| Format | application/pdf |
| Source | http://etd.uovs.ac.za//theses/available/etd-10042011-092009/restricted/ |
| Rights | unrestricted, I hereby certify that, if appropriate, I have obtained and attached hereto a written permission statement from the owner(s) of each third party copyrighted matter to be included in my thesis, dissertation, or project report, allowing distribution as specified below. I certify that the version I submitted is the same as that approved by my advisory committee. I hereby grant to University Free State or its agents the non-exclusive license to archive and make accessible, under the conditions specified below, my thesis, dissertation, or project report in whole or in part in all forms of media, now or hereafter known. I retain all other ownership rights to the copyright of the thesis, dissertation or project report. I also retain the right to use in future works (such as articles or books) all or part of this thesis, dissertation, or project report. |
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