The Ambiguous and Undefined Figuration of Sexual Identity in Tennessee Williams’ Work
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.35699/2317-2096.2022.38015Keywords:
American Dramaturgy, American Theatre, Tennessee Williams, Expressionism, homosexuality, LGBTQIAPN+Abstract
Abstract: This work analyzes nine plays from Tennessee Williams’ entire career where sexual identity figuration is ambiguous, and the character's homosexuality is not accurate. Behaviors, postures, gestures and speeches are pointed out that show a mismatch with the masculinity and femininity conventions surrounded by culture and tradition. It is identified that this characterization is determined by a profound lyrical description that refers to expressionism. The characters, therefore, are investigated not in a pragmatic way, but as this poetics develops it: each one with an ambiguous weave that displaces the heteronormative character with metaphors, isolating it from the traditional group, creating a private and oppressed world from outside. As a conclusion, the ambiguity presents a critical socio-political discussion about gender aspects, revealing a playwright under aspects little analyzed in Brazil.
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