Prejudices, Stereotypes and other "Crap": Countering Misconceptions and Normative Assumptions Around Sexuality and Gender in LGBTQ-themed Young Adult Novels

Abstract

This thesis analyses LGBTQ-themed young adult novels. More specifically, it aims to discuss the way in which they portray homophobia, prejudices, stereotypes and cultural clichés, and whether or not they succeed in countering normative assumptions around sexuality and gender. It herefore uses Judith Butler's theories on sexuality and gender, such as described in her book Gender Trouble. Two novels are discussed in detail, namely Out of the Shadows by Sue Hines and Girl Meets Boy by Ali Smith. The thesis argues that those two novels, in contrast to other LGBTQ-themed young adult novels, succesfully counter misconceptions and normative assumptions surrounding sexualit and gender.