The idea of exploring LGBTQ+ themes within mythology and literature dates back to the late 19th century when writers such as Oscar Wilde began to question traditional ideas about gender roles and sexuality. Throughout history, mythological and literary depictions have provided insights into the ways in which societies have understood and responded to non-normative expressions of love, desire, and identity. By analyzing these texts through a contemporary philosophical lens, we can gain valuable insight into how our society has evolved its understandings of queer experiences.
One example is Plato's Symposium, which describes an evening spent discussing the nature of love between a group of male Athenian intellectuals. In this dialogue, Aristophanes presents a theory that human beings were originally created as androgynous creatures with four arms, four legs, and one head, but Zeus was unhappy with their power and split them in half. As a result, humans now seek out their other halves to restore wholeness. This concept of "androgyny" resonates with contemporary theories about gender fluidity and the importance of finding oneself in relationships with others.
Another example is Shakespeare's Sonnet 20, which suggests that same-sex love can be just as passionate and enduring as heterosexual love. The speaker proclaims their devotion to the "master mistress of my passion," who is described as both beautiful and desirable. This poem challenges the idea that only romantic relationships between men and women are legitimate or meaningful.
Not all literature portrays LGBTQ+ characters positively.
In Homer's Odyssey, homosexual acts are associated with violence and depravity, reflecting the prevalent beliefs of ancient Greek society. Similarly, modern works such as James Baldwin's Giovanni's Room have been criticized for perpetuating harmful stereotypes of gay men as promiscuous and selfish.
Exploring mythological and literary portrayals of queer experiences provides valuable insights into our changing societal attitudes towards sexuality and identity. By analyzing these texts through a contemporary philosophical lens, we can gain greater understanding of how our understandings of gender and sexuality have evolved over time.
What lessons can contemporary philosophy draw from mythological and literary portrayals of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and queer figures?
Contemporary philosophers may be able to learn several lessons from the literature and mythology surrounding sexual minorities. One such lesson is that there are many ways to express gender and sexuality beyond heterosexual norms. Mythical stories involving LGBTQ+ characters showcase different forms of non-heteronormative relationships and experiences, which can challenge traditional understandings of sexuality and provide insight into alternative modes of being.