Reading the Gay Male Body

In this paper, I examine homoerotic representations of the male body in terms of gender and class. Many images of male bodies, not just images pointed towards gay men, use gender and class markers to emphasize the masculinity of their subjects, as if it is not plain enough that the body is male. Why should images with a presumably solely erotic purpose engage these social hierarchies and meanings? I have a hunch that in the case of gay male representation, these class and gender markers serve to counter any doubt about the masculinity of the homoerotic. The presence of similar markers in images targeted at both men and women of various sexualities makes me wonder if these masculine meanings are also seen as proof of heterosexuality. Eventually I want to carry this analysis into popular culture, such as movies and advertisements.

This paper was originally written in May 1996. Some facts have changed. For example, Bob and Rod Jackson-Paris are no longer Mr. and Mr. Jackson-Paris. Angels in America has also long since completed its Charlotte run. If you haven't seen it yet, try to find it! Or at least read it!


NOTE! This serves as my disclaimer! If you are in any way offended by homoerotic images, you are of course entitled to web away from here as quickly as your mouse can take you. However, none of these images are full frontal nudes. These images are no more revealing than most media, so I do not feel the need to post some silly age of consent warning. For reading ease, I have placed the images as links. (Note: as of yet these images have not yet been scanned! They'll be there soon!) This allows you to bypass them, but personally, I find the text much more stimulating with them.

Table of Contents


To the Back Porch

Comments? grendel@nr.infi.net

This page last updated November 11, 1996.