Description
Book Synopsis: To what extent did people think they could identify an 'obvious' sodomite before the construction of the homosexual as a type of person during the latter part of the nineteenth century? What role did secrecy and denial play in relation to the visual expression of same-sex desire before the term 'the closet' came into widespread use in the latter part of the twentieth century? And what, therefore, did sodomites/homosexuals/gays/queers look like in Britain in 1700, 1800, 1900 and 2000? Could they be spotted mincing down the street? Or were such as these just the flamboyant few whose presence conveniently drew attention away from the many others who wanted to appear 'normal'? These issues are not peripheral to the struggle of the last several decades for individual self-determination and self-expression. It was this set of cultural constructions that the pioneering writer Eve Kosofsky Sedgwick (1950-2009) attacked in her book Epistemology of the Closet as representing 'the defining structure for gay oppression in this century'. This book represents a visual culture counterpart to Sedgwick's study and aims, through the use of a series of interdisciplinary case-studies, to explore both the pre-history of the closet since the eighteenth century and its evolution through to the present day. Chapters explore key moments and issues within the British cultural experience and make pioneering use of a wide range of source materials ranging from art to fashion, literature, philosophy, theology, film and archival records.
Details
Unlock the secrets of male secrecy and homosexual visibility in Britain with our captivating book, "Picturing the Closet". Delve into the fascinating world of same-sex desire before the construction of homosexuality as a recognizable identity. Discover the role of secrecy and denial in shaping the visual expression of this longing. Were flamboyant individuals the only ones drawing attention away from those who wanted to appear "normal"? Our thought-provoking book explores these questions and more to shed light on the struggle for self-determination and self-expression that has defined the last several decades.
Written as a visual culture counterpart to Eve Kosofsky Sedgwick's groundbreaking work, this book takes you on a journey through the evolving history of the closet. Dive into interdisciplinary case-studies that explore the pre-history of secrecy dating back to the 18th century, and witness its relentless transformation until present day. Our chapters meticulously dissect key moments and issues within the British cultural experience, incorporating a diverse range of source materials such as art, fashion, literature, philosophy, theology, film, and archival records. The result is a comprehensive exploration that will leave you with a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between identity, visibility, and societal perceptions.
Don't miss out on this invaluable resource that offers fresh insights into the past and present struggles faced by the LGBTQ+ community. Empower yourself with knowledge and broaden your perspective by grabbing a copy of "Picturing the Closet" today.
Explore the hidden world of male secrecy and homosexual visibility in Britain
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