Luna's first Call for Papers, 'Gender Identity and Sexuality in Fantasy and Science Fiction' will be released on Wednesday the 9th of August. Explore the ten brilliant papers you will find in the book.
Today, we introduce you to Hazel Butler (UK). She is presenting the paper: "Badass Bisexual Babes: Shameless Titillation or Empowered Characters Embracing their True Selves and Sexuality?".
Hazel says:
"The twenty-first century is increasingly accepting of the full spectrum of gender identities, sexuality, and sexual preference. We see an increasing number of characters in Fantasy who embrace different aspects of this spectrum. Their validity as representations of the LGBTQS community can be brought into question, however, by characters whose sexual expression is less a reflection of true diversity, and more an attempt to titillate audiences with same-sex action while keeping main characters ‘straight at heart’ to preserve the mainstream appeal of central romantic relationships. This study will examine a number of notable examples of bisexual characters in Fantasy and consider whether their gender identities and sexuality, as portrayed, are a genuine reflection of a more diverse approach to characterisation, or a cheap trick to boost ratings and gain publicity."
You can follow Hazel on Twitter.
Pre-order 'Gender Identity and Sexuality in Fantasy and Science Fiction' now!