Queer Theory

Thinking Activity

This blog is written in response to the thinking activity assigned by Dr. Dilip Barad sir on applying the queer theory to the novel 'Orlando' by Virginia Woolf, 'Mismatched' web series and 'Shubh Mangal Jyada Savadhan' Film.

Queer Theory

      Queer theory is about gay and lesbian studies, as well as theoretical and critical writings exploring various forms of sexual and gender variance, such as cross-dressing, bisexuality, and transsexuality. The term "queer," initially derogatory, was claimed by the LGBTQ+ community as a self-identifier and academic field in the early 1990s. Scholars like Teresa de Lauretis ("Queer Theory: Lesbian and Gay Sexualities," 1991) and Annamarie Jagose ("Queer Theory: An Introduction," 1996) have played crucial roles in shaping this field.

            Both gay and lesbian studies began as liberation movements during the late 1960s and 1970s, paralleling other social justice movements. Initially, these movements were somewhat separatist, with gay men and lesbians emphasising distinct identities. However, the adoption of the term "queer" signifies a shared history of oppression and common political goals.

In the 1980s and 1990s, influenced by post structuralist thinkers like Derrida and Foucault, queer theorists began questioning assumptions about fixed and stable gay or lesbian identities. The deconstructive approach aimed to dismantle binary oppositions in Western culture, challenging norms such as male/female, heterosexual/homosexual, and natural/unnatural.

Adrienne Rich's essay "Compulsive Heterosexuality and Lesbian Existence" (1980) introduced the concept of the "lesbian continuum," which emphasises the diversity of women's relationships beyond overtly physical same-sex relations. Later, theorists like Eve Sedgwick and Judith Butler subverted hierarchical oppositions by highlighting the role of suppression and denial in constructing normative heterosexuality. Heterosexuality is based on the suppression and denial of same-sex desires and relationships. Queer reading has become the term for interpretive activities that undertake to subvert and confound the established verbal and cultural oppositions and boundaries between male/female, homosexual/heterosexual, and normal/abnormal.

Michel Foucault's "History of Sexuality" (1976) argued that the concept of "homosexual" emerged in the late 19th century, challenging essentialist views. Judith Butler's "Gender Trouble" (1990) proposed that gender and sexuality are performative, culturally constructed categories.

Queer reading involves destabilised established verbal and cultural boundaries. It challenges normative categories. Constructionist views argue against essentialism which suggests that categories like heterosexual and homosexual are cultural constructs subject to historical change. There is ongoing debate within queer theory about the balance between radical constructivism and the affirmation of enduring LGBTQ+ identities.

Numerous anthologies and texts, such as "Lesbian Texts and Contexts" (1990), "Inside/Out: Lesbian Theories, Gay Theories" (1991), and "The Lesbian and Gay Studies Reader" (1993), showcase key works in queer theory. The field has expanded to include conferences, journals, and a significant presence in academic curricula. Prominent scholars include Karla Jay, Eve Kosofsky Sedgwick, and Michael Warner.

The evolving body of literature in queer theory continues to explore and redefine our understanding of sexuality, gender, and identity.

How to study queer theory?

1. Identify and establish a canon of 'classic' lesbian/gay writers

2. Identify lesbian/gay episodes in mainstream work and discuss them rather than reading same-sex pairings in non-specific ways, for instance, as symbolising two aspects of the same character.

3. Set up an extended, metaphorical sense of 'lesbian/gay' so that it connotes a moment of crossing a boundary, or blurring a set of categories.

4. Expose the 'homophobia' of mainstream literature and criticism, as seen in ignoring or denigrating the homosexual aspects of the work.

5. Foreground homosexual aspects of mainstream literature which have previously been glossed over

6. Foreground literary genres, previously neglected, which significantly influenced ideals of masculinity or femininity

There are lots of examples of queer studies in literature as well as in the Cinema. But even now as well we can find that this queer part remains a subplot not the mainstream. Let's take example of Orlando

Orlando: A Biography(1928) by Virginia Woolf

Orlando, a novel by Virginia Woolf, offers a profound exploration through the lens of Queer studies as its protagonist undergoes a transformative journey of changing genders. It is noteworthy to mention that Virginia Woolf, the author, is acknowledged as a lesbian, as evident in her letters to Vita Sackville. The film "Vita and Virginia'' is a cinematic portrayal of the relationship between Vita and Virginia, adding another layer to the exploration of LGBTQ+ themes.

Within Orlando, the protagonist experiences a significant gender transformation from man to woman, serving as a central theme challenging conventional gender norms. This metamorphosis serves as a metaphorical representation of LGBTQ+ identity. The novel critically examines historical homophobia, showcasing how societal norms restrict individuals based on their gender and sexuality. It acts as a critique of the limitations imposed by heteronormative ideologies. The challenges faced by Orlando post-gender transformation, including the denial of access to wealth, further highlight the societal resistance rooted in traditional beliefs.

Orlando defies traditional literary boundaries by spanning centuries and engaging with various historical periods, making a significant contribution to the LGBTQ+ literary tradition. Now, shifting focus to the Hindi web series "Mismatched," directed by Akarsh Khurana, we find a contemporary narrative that also warrants analysis through the lens of queer studies.

Mismatched:

"Mismatched," a 2020 Indian Hindi-language coming-of-age romantic drama web series on Netflix, directed by Akarsh Khurana, unfolds a nuanced narrative that warrants analysis through the lens of queer studies. Despite the title primarily emphasizing the relationship between Rishi and Dimple, an equally significant queer storyline unfolds with Namrita, adding depth to the exploration of LGBTQ+ themes.

Namrita's journey is pivotal in understanding queer dynamics as she grapples with hurdles associated with her lesbian identity. The revelation of her sexual orientation within her summer course squad is met with negative responses, exemplifying the challenges faced by individuals who identify outside heteronormative norms. The dramatic response from her father, confining her to a room to restrict her movements, underscores the societal resistance and prejudice against non-heteronormative relationships.

In choosing to be with Ayesha, who shares a similar sexual orientation, Namrita's storyline reflects the resilience and solidarity within the LGBTQ+ community. Despite the increased visibility and discourse around LGBTQ+ relations in contemporary society, acceptance remains an ongoing struggle. The acknowledgment of this struggle is further emphasized by the societal reluctance to recognize such relationships as "normal."

In a broader societal context, there has been a notable development in India's legal landscape. The Supreme Court's 2022 ruling, expanding the definition of families to include live-in couples, inclusive of LGBT individuals, is a significant step toward legal recognition and equal rights. However, the narrative in "Mismatched" poignantly portrays the lingering societal reluctance to embrace such relationships fully.

"Mismatched" contributes to the ongoing dialogue around LGBTQ+ representation by weaving a storyline that reflects both the legal advancements and persisting societal challenges faced by the queer community in India.

Both Orlando and "Mismatched" contribute to the ongoing conversation surrounding LGBTQ+ themes, challenging societal norms and expectations through their respective mediums of literature and web series, and highlighting the persistent struggles for acceptance faced by the queer community.

Shubh Mangal Jyada savadhan:

"Shubh Mangal Jyada Saavdhan'' is a Bollywood film released in 2020, directed by Hitesh Kewalya. The movie stands out as a notable example of queer representation in Indian cinema. Unlike traditional Bollywood romances, this film explores same-sex relationships and challenges societal norms around homosexuality. The narrative revolves around Kartik Singh and Aman Tripathi , a gay couple who struggle to gain acceptance from their families. The title itself, "Shubh Mangal Jyada Saavdhan," which translates to "Be Extra Careful of Auspicious Moments," cleverly plays on the traditional Indian phrase associated with marital bliss, subverting expectations and drawing attention to the unique challenges faced by queer individuals.

The film delves into the complexities and prejudices that LGBTQ+ individuals often confront in a conservative society. It highlights the importance of family acceptance and societal understanding, offering a mix of humour and emotion to address a serious subject. The movie received praise for its bold approach and efforts to contribute to changing attitudes towards same-sex relationships in India. In essence, "Shubh Mangal Jyada Saavdhan'' is a significant step towards greater inclusivity in Indian cinema, contributing to the ongoing conversation about LGBTQ+ rights and representation in the country.

To sum up, Queer studies talks about gay and lesbian, as well as theoretical and critical writings exploring various forms of sexual and gender variance, such as cross-dressing, bisexuality, and transsexuality.

Here I am attaching the video that will be helpful to you understand this theory:

Note: I have teken help from ChatGPT to modify literary language and grammatical error.

(Words: 1363

Images: 7

Videos: 1)

Namrita's journey is pivotal in understanding queer dynamics as she grapples with hurdles associated with her lesbian identity. The revelation of her sexual orientation within her summer course squad is met with negative responses, exemplifying the challenges faced by individuals who identify outside heteronormative norms. The dramatic response from her father, confining her to a room to restrict her movements, underscores the societal resistance and prejudice against non-heteronormative relationships.

In choosing to be with Ayesha, who shares a similar sexual orientation, Namrita's storyline reflects the resilience and solidarity within the LGBTQ+ community. Despite the increased visibility and discourse around LGBTQ+ relations in contemporary society, acceptance remains an ongoing struggle. The acknowledgment of this struggle is further emphasized by the societal reluctance to recognize such relationships as "normal."

In a broader societal context, there has been a notable development in India's legal landscape. The Supreme Court's 2022 ruling, expanding the definition of families to include live-in couples, inclusive of LGBT individuals, is a significant step toward legal recognition and equal rights. However, the narrative in "Mismatched" poignantly portrays the lingering societal reluctance to embrace such relationships fully.

"Mismatched" contributes to the ongoing dialogue around LGBTQ+ representation by weaving a storyline that reflects both the legal advancements and persisting societal challenges faced by the queer community in India.

Both Orlando and "Mismatched" contribute to the ongoing conversation surrounding LGBTQ+ themes, challenging societal norms and expectations through their respective mediums of literature and web series, and highlighting the persistent struggles for acceptance faced by the queer community.

Shubh Mangal Jyada savadhan:

"Shubh Mangal Jyada Saavdhan'' is a Bollywood film released in 2020, directed by Hitesh Kewalya. The movie stands out as a notable example of queer representation in Indian cinema. Unlike traditional Bollywood romances, this film explores same-sex relationships and challenges societal norms around homosexuality. The narrative revolves around Kartik Singh and Aman Tripathi , a gay couple who struggle to gain acceptance from their families. The title itself, "Shubh Mangal Jyada Saavdhan," which translates to "Be Extra Careful of Auspicious Moments," cleverly plays on the traditional Indian phrase associated with marital bliss, subverting expectations and drawing attention to the unique challenges faced by queer individuals.

The film delves into the complexities and prejudices that LGBTQ+ individuals often confront in a conservative society. It highlights the importance of family acceptance and societal understanding, offering a mix of humour and emotion to address a serious subject. The movie received praise for its bold approach and efforts to contribute to changing attitudes towards same-sex relationships in India. In essence, "Shubh Mangal Jyada Saavdhan'' is a significant step towards greater inclusivity in Indian cinema, contributing to the ongoing conversation about LGBTQ+ rights and representation in the country.

To sum up, Queer studies talks about gay and lesbian, as well as theoretical and critical writings exploring various forms of sexual and gender variance, such as cross-dressing, bisexuality, and transsexuality.

Here I am attaching the video that will be helpful to you understand this theory:

Note: I have taken help from ChatGPT to modify literary language and grammatical error.

(Words: 1380

Images: 7

Videos: 2)