Faeries, Bears, and Leathermen: Men in Community Queering the Masculine

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University of Chicago Press, Nov 15, 2008 - Social Science - 240 pages
Over time, male homosexuality and effeminacy have become indelibly associated, sometimes even synonymous. In Faeries, Bears, and Leathermen, Peter Hennen contends that this stigma of effeminacy exerts a powerful influence on gay subcultures. Through a comparative ethnographic analysis of three communities, Hennen explores the surprising ways that conventional masculinity is being collectively challenged, subverted, or perpetuated in contemporary gay male culture.

Hennen’s colorful study focuses on a trio of groups: the Radical Faeries, who parody effeminacy by playfully embracing it, donning prom dresses and glitter; the Bears, who strive to appear like “regular guys” and celebrate their larger, hairier bodies; and the Leathermen, who emulate hypermasculine biker culture, simultaneously paying homage to and undermining notions of manliness. Along with a historical analysis of the association between effeminacy and homosexuality, Hennen examines how this connection affects the groups’ sexual practices. Ultimately, he argues, while all three groups adopt innovative approaches to gender issues and sexual pleasure, masculine norms continue to constrain members of each community.
 

Contents

Gay Men Queer Men and Gendered Strategies of Resistance
1
Cultural and Historical Perspectives on Effeminacy
32
Resistance and Compliance among the Radical Faeries
59
Recuperation Resistance or Retreat?
95
Hypermasculinity Performativity and the Specter of Starched Chiffon
134
6 Fielding Questions Fielding Possibilities
179
Notes
197
References
219
Index
235
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About the author (2008)

Peter Hennen is assistant professor of sociology at the Ohio State University at Newark.

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