Queer Theory: Jagose

I have completed my reading Jagose’s text on the introduction to queer theory. This small, 150 page, text is largely a historical analysis of the emergence of the term “queer” and subsequent term that is used as a trope and guide within critical cultural theory. I have found this text helpful in tracing the history of sexuality from the Homophile movement, Homosexuality, Lesbian Feminism, identity politics; and, additionally, to the ways in which Poststructuralism has used the term Queer.

The historical analysis of this text was central to the Jagose’s method, and in turn proved quite helpful in filling gaps in my own knowledge of feminist theory and Poststructuralism.

I haven’t seen many reviews of this text in the WP community or otherwise, but am interested in hearing/reading if there are some critiques.

For those interested, the term queer is typically used as a relational term. This term is not necessarily an indication of sexual orientation, in particular, same-sex orientation. Oftentimes the term queer is used in relationship to same-sex orientation and sexual orientation; however, the emergence of the term queer was an attempt to utilize poststructuralist tools in the construction of identity and politics. It seems to me that queer becomes an aspect of politics; that is, a cause that produces effects. Queer oftentimes is something that is derived from the self and used in self-definition, and not a term that can be used to talk about something or someone; however, theorists and opinions differ regarding the ways in which the term queer is used.

“Queer turns identity politics inside out…” [Jagose, taken from The Afterword]