Aestheticism and Sexual Parody 1840–1940

This insightful study examines how parody was used by marginalized groups to challenge societal norms, particularly during the Aesthetic Movement. Aestheticism and Sexual Parody 1840–1940 offers a compelling analysis.

In Aestheticism and Sexual Parody 1840–1940, Dennis Denisoff delves into the intricate relationship between parody and the Aesthetic Movement, focusing on how marginalized sexual identities utilized parody as a means to challenge societal norms. This exploration spans the late nineteenth and twentieth centuries, examining the works of various authors who engaged with the aestheticism of their time. By analyzing the interplay between parody and the texts of established literary figures, Denisoff reveals how parody served as a tool for acceptance of non-normative sexualities within mainstream culture.

The book highlights the contributions of notable writers, including W. S. Gilbert, Vernon Lee, and Christopher Isherwood, as well as the visual satire of George du Maurier and Max Beerbohm. Through these examples, Denisoff illustrates how parody not only critiques but also reshapes the narratives surrounding gender and sexuality. The study emphasizes the role of popular culture in the Victorian era, arguing that parody was instrumental in allowing society to confront and negotiate its views on sexual identity.

Ultimately, Aestheticism and Sexual Parody 1840–1940 provides a thought-provoking analysis of how parody functions as a combative strategy for marginalized groups. By situating these literary and artistic works within a broader cultural context, Denisoff contributes to our understanding of how parody has historically been employed to challenge the status quo and redefine societal perceptions of sexuality and taste.