The genre of LGBTQ+ literary criticism is a vital field that offers insight into the intersection of queer identity and literature. These books not only enhance understanding of the LGBTQ+ experience but also provide critical analysis of literary works through the lens of gender and sexuality. Whether you’re a scholar or an avid reader interested in LGBTQ+ studies, this list of the top 10 LGBTQ+ literary criticism books will enrich your perspective and deepen your appreciation of the genre.
Author: Julian Stokes
Julian Stokes is a literary critic and academic specializing in queer theory and LGBTQ+ studies. He has written extensively on LGBTQ+ literary criticism and its evolving role in the broader world of literary analysis.
10. The Uncensored Picture of Dorian Gray
Author: Oscar Wilde
⭐⭐⭐⭐★ (4.6/5)
355 Ratings
Why We Chose It:
This version of The Picture of Dorian Gray restores the original uncensored text of Wilde’s novel, offering a raw and unapologetic depiction of queer desire. It’s a must-read for anyone delving into LGBTQ+ literary criticism, as it opens up a conversation about censorship, aesthetics, and the moral panic surrounding queer themes in literature.
Fun Fact:
Oscar Wilde’s only novel was heavily edited upon publication in 1890 due to its “immoral” content. The uncensored version reveals Wilde’s original intentions, giving readers a more authentic view of his queer narrative.
Category: LGBTQ+ Literary Criticism
9. Sticking It to the Man: Revolution and Counterculture in Pulp and Popular Fiction, 1950 to 1980
Author: Iain McIntyre
⭐⭐⭐⭐★ (4.7/5)
18 Ratings
Why We Chose It:
This book explores the radical politics of pulp fiction, focusing on how these popular genres incorporated and subverted LGBTQ+ themes. It’s perfect for readers interested in how LGBTQ+ criticism intersects with pop culture and counterculture.
Fun Fact:
The book includes analysis of how queer characters in pulp fiction often broke away from heteronormative narratives, offering an early form of LGBTQ+ resistance.
8. Transgressive Tales: Queering the Grimms
Author: Kay Turner
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0/5)
5 Ratings
Why We Chose It:
Transgressive Tales takes a deep dive into the queer subtext of Grimms’ fairy tales. It’s a groundbreaking work in LGBTQ+ literary criticism that unearths hidden themes of gender fluidity and queer desire in traditional folklore.
Fun Fact:
Kay Turner argues that fairy tales are a perfect space for queer readings because they often subvert traditional gender roles and explore taboo subjects.
7. Narratives of Scale in the Anthropocene: Imagining Human Responsibility in an Age of Scalar Complexity
Author: Gabriele Dürbeck
⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.3/5)
435 Ratings
Why We Chose It:
Although not solely focused on LGBTQ+ themes, Narratives of Scale in the Anthropocene includes critical approaches that intersect with queer theory, examining how marginalized voices, including those of the LGBTQ+ community, are represented in discussions of climate change and the Anthropocene.
Fun Fact:
The book explores how climate change disproportionately affects marginalized communities, including LGBTQ+ individuals, offering a unique intersection of ecological and queer criticism.
6. Daemon Voices: On Stories and Storytelling
Author: Philip Pullman
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.7/5)
574 Ratings
Why We Chose It:
In Daemon Voices, Pullman discusses the craft of storytelling through essays that touch upon the role of queer representation in literature. Though not exclusively an LGBTQ+ text, Pullman’s insights on narrative and identity offer invaluable contributions to LGBTQ+ literary criticism.
Fun Fact:
Pullman has been an outspoken advocate for diversity in literature, including the representation of LGBTQ+ characters, especially in young adult fiction.
5. Marcel Proust: In Search of Lost Time (Volumes 1 to 7)
Author: Marcel Proust
⭐⭐⭐⭐★ (4.5/5)
25 Ratings
Why We Chose It:
Proust’s seminal work explores themes of memory, time, and sexuality, making it an essential text in the field of LGBTQ+ literary criticism. His portrayal of queer characters and relationships within the context of early 20th-century France remains one of the most nuanced in literary history.
Fun Fact:
Proust’s own sexuality, and how it influenced his work, has been the subject of much scholarly debate, making In Search of Lost Time a cornerstone of queer literary studies.
4. Christopher Isherwood Inside Out
Author: Katherine Bucknell
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.8/5)
14 Ratings
Why We Chose It:
This biography of Christopher Isherwood offers an in-depth look at one of the most influential queer authors of the 20th century. Bucknell’s work is essential for anyone interested in LGBTQ+ literary criticism, as it traces Isherwood’s contributions to literature and his open exploration of gay themes.
Fun Fact:
Isherwood is best known for his novel A Single Man, which was one of the first mainstream novels to depict a gay man’s life with dignity.
3. Glorious Bodies: Trans Theology and Renaissance Literature
Author: Colby Gordon
⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.7/5)
574 Ratings
Why We Chose It:
Glorious Bodies blends queer theory with theology and Renaissance literature, offering readers a scholarly yet accessible look at the representation of transgender bodies in classic texts. This book is a valuable resource in LGBTQ+ literary criticism, particularly for those studying gender fluidity in historical contexts.
Fun Fact:
Colby Gordon’s work is at the forefront of trans theology, a relatively new but rapidly growing field of LGBTQ+ scholarship.
2. When Dusk Comes: Book One in the Dusk Queen Series
Author: J.J. Arias
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5)
653 Ratings
Why We Chose It:
Arias’ fantasy novel explores themes of identity, power, and sexuality in a richly imagined world. While not a work of literary criticism, its portrayal of queer characters and relationships has earned it a spot as a valuable text in the larger discussion of LGBTQ+ literature.
Fun Fact:
This is the first book in the Dusk Queen Series, which is beloved for its complex world-building and nuanced queer representation.
1. It Came from the Closet: Queer Reflections on Horror
Author: Joe Vallese
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5)
106 Ratings
Why We Chose It:
This collection of essays offers a unique take on LGBTQ+ literary criticism by exploring the intersection of queer identity and horror films. It’s a powerful, thought-provoking read for anyone interested in how queer narratives intersect with popular culture and genre fiction.
Fun Fact:
The essays in this book explore iconic horror films such as A Nightmare on Elm Street and their queer subtext, revealing how horror has been a space for exploring LGBTQ+ fears and desires.
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These books provide rich, thought-provoking takes on LGBTQ+ literary criticism that will deepen your understanding of queer narratives in literature and beyond. Whether you’re a scholar or a casual reader, these titles offer something for everyone.
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