Why do so many queer people love myths and legends?
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Queer as Folklore: Exploring the LGBTQ+ Affinity to Mythology
Sacha Coward, a historian and author, delves deep into the hidden queer history of myth and folklore in his upcoming book, Queer as Folklore. The book, set to be released on August 22 in the UK, aims to uncover why the LGBTQ+ community feels such a strong connection to various mythologies from around the world.
Coward highlights the presence of mythological creatures and folklore elements in LGBTQ+ spaces, such as Pride parades, where rainbow flags are not the only symbols present. Mermaids, unicorns, fairy wings, and other fantastical elements are also commonly seen, contributing to the modern queer aesthetic. But Coward poses a thought-provoking question – where does this connection between queerness and mythology originate from, and is there a deeper, more ancient history behind it?
The book explores the notion of queer individuals seeking reflections of themselves in historical narratives, which have often excluded or erased them. Coward emphasizes the importance of recognizing the queer presence in mythological stories and legends, as they play a significant role in shaping the identity and experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals.
While acknowledging the appeal of mythical creatures like unicorns and fairies for their aesthetic qualities, Coward goes beyond surface-level analysis to uncover the deeper resonance that queer individuals find in these stories. He discusses how queerness has been intertwined with mythical beings throughout history, reflecting the fluidity and diversity of gender and identity expressions.
One of the key themes of Queer as Folklore is the exploration of the universal experiences shared by queer individuals across different cultures and time periods. Coward delves into historical examples of gender non-conformity and identity fluidity, emphasizing the need to understand these concepts within their historical context rather than imposing modern labels onto them.
The book also addresses the challenges of researching LGBTQ+ history, which often involves navigating through records filled with slurs and stigmatizing language. Coward sheds light on the struggles faced by queer individuals throughout history, including persecution, discrimination, and erasure from mainstream narratives.
Despite the difficulties in uncovering queer history, Coward remains committed to highlighting the resilience and presence of LGBTQ+ individuals throughout time. Queer as Folklore serves as a celebration of queer identity and a testament to the enduring spirit of those who have challenged norms and embraced their true selves.
In conclusion, Queer as Folklore by Sacha Coward offers a unique perspective on the intersection of queerness and mythology, inviting readers to explore the rich tapestry of LGBTQ+ history woven into ancient stories and legends. The book promises to be a thought-provoking and empowering read for those interested in uncovering hidden queer narratives from the past.
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Queer as Folklore
