Erotic parody is the representation of sexual activity in an exaggerated, comedic, or humorous way, often for the purpose of social commentary, entertainment, or critique. It has been used throughout history to challenge dominant cultural scripts of desire, which are the rules, norms, and expectations that govern how people express their desires, particularly around romantic and sexual relationships.
The famous 1982 film Porky's is a comedic parody of teenage sexuality that challenges the idea that women should be subservient and men should act aggressively toward them. The movie's characters engage in highly unrealistic and exaggerated sexual behavior, such as using a water bed filled with Jell-O to simulate intercourse, that highlights the ridiculousness of traditional gender roles.
One way erotic parody can undermine these scripts is by exposing the absurdity of these norms. By exaggerating and mocking them, erotic parodies show viewers that they are arbitrary and unnatural, making it easier to see through their flaws. This can help to break down social barriers, such as those related to race, class, and religion, that prevent some groups from accessing certain types of intimacy. Erotic parody can also encourage people to question their own desires and explore new ones, as well as challenge societal taboos around sex and pleasure.
There is concern that erotic parody could reinforce negative stereotypes and contribute to a culture of objectification.
Movies like Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan (2006) use crude humor to poke fun at sexist attitudes towards women but rely heavily on female nudity and suggestive language. These films may perpetuate harmful ideas about male entitlement to women's bodies and reinforce the notion that women exist primarily for male pleasure.
While erotic parody has the potential to be an effective tool for challenging dominant cultural scripts of desire, it should be used carefully to avoid reinforcing harmful stereotypes or promoting misogyny.
Individual viewers must decide how to interpret erotic parodies and use them in their own lives, keeping in mind the complexities and nuances of human sexuality.
To what extent does erotic parody undermine dominant cultural scripts of desire?
Eric LaBossiere defines parody as "the imitation of an original work with deliberate exaggeration" (2013). Thus, erotic parody refers to representations of sexuality that challenge existing social norms by mocking them. Parodies can be found in literature, film, music, theater, and other media forms, which make them accessible to different audiences.