Insufferable: Beckett, Gender and Sexuality

Beckett's work rethinks the role of gender politics, demonstrates his historical importance in developing the antisocial thesis in queer theory, and shows his attachment to sexuality as temporarily consolatory but ultimately unbearable. This Element brings to Beckett questions that have emerged from gender, queer, and trans theory, engages with the history of feminism and sexuality studies, and develops a theoretical framework to account for what we have previously overlooked, underplayed, and misinterpreted in Beckett. It makes a case for a queerly generative de-idealization of Beckett as an object of critical study.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 75 pages
Publication date: 19 October 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Beckett, Gender and Sexuality is a groundbreaking work that reexamines the role of gender politics in Beckett's oeuvre. It demonstrates Beckett's historical significance in the development of the antisocial thesis in queer theory and highlights the work's attachment to sexuality as temporarily consolatory but ultimately unbearable. Initially, Beckett's work may appear unpromising for gender and sexuality studies, but this is precisely what makes it worth exploring. This Element raises critical questions that have emerged from gender, queer, and trans theory, engages with the history of feminism and sexuality studies, and develops a theoretical framework capable of accounting for what has previously been overlooked, underplayed, and misinterpreted in Beckett. In keeping with the spirit of seeking an elsewhere, it advocates for a queerly generative de-idealization of Beckett as an object of critical study.

Gender and Sexuality delves into the complex interplay of gender, sexuality, and power in Beckett's works. It explores how gender is constructed, performed, and resisted, and how sexuality is both desired and condemned. The book also examines the ways in which Beckett's characters negotiate their identities and relationships, often in the face of social and political constraints.

One of the key themes in Gender and Sexuality is the concept of the "antisocial thesis." This thesis argues that gender and sexuality are not natural or inherent, but rather are socially constructed and enforced. According to the book, this construction leads to the marginalization and oppression of marginalized individuals, such as women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people of color.

Beckett's work is particularly relevant to the study of gender and sexuality because he challenges traditional notions of identity and representation. His characters are often fragmented and uncertain, and their relationships are often fraught with tension and ambiguity. This uncertainty and complexity make it difficult to categorize or label Beckett's characters, and it encourages readers to think critically about the ways in which gender and sexuality are constructed and experienced.

Gender and Sexuality also explores the relationship between gender and sexuality and power. The book argues that power is often used to reinforce gender and sexual norms, and that those who challenge these norms are often marginalized and oppressed. It also explores the ways in which power can be resisted and subverted, and how individuals can create their own identities and relationships outside of the constraints of traditional gender and sexual norms.

In addition to its theoretical insights, Gender and Sexuality offers a wealth of critical analysis of Beckett's works. The book provides close readings of key texts, such as Waiting for Godot, Endgame, and Happy Days, and explores the ways in which gender and sexuality are portrayed and interpreted. It also considers the historical and cultural contexts in which Beckett's works were written and published, and how these contexts influenced his portrayal of gender and sexuality.

Overall, Gender and Sexuality is a groundbreaking work that offers new perspectives on the role of gender, sexuality, and power in Beckett's oeuvre. It demonstrates Beckett's historical significance in the development of queer theory and highlights the work's attachment to sexuality as temporarily consolatory but ultimately unbearable. The book's theoretical framework and critical analysis provide valuable insights into the ways in which gender and sexuality are constructed and experienced, and it encourages readers to think critically about the ways in which these constructs shape our lives and societies.

Weight: 127g
ISBN-13: 9781009244770