Lesbian Intimacies and Family Life: Desire, domesticity and kinship in Britain and Australia, 1945-2000

This book explores the historical roots of parenting practices and familial patterns constructed by lesbians and same-sex attracted women in Britain and Australia between 1945 and 2000, focusing on patterns of intimacy. It includes original oral history interviews and analysis of representations in literature, press articles, medical texts, and archival material to demonstrate how changing political and cultural concepts of sexuality impacted individual and collective attitudes. It also highlights how lesbian relationships provided alternative models of interpersonal relations, impacting broader patterns of sexuality and helping redefine notions of the family in the modern era.

Format: Hardback
Length: 296 pages
Publication date: 14 December 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This captivating book delves into the intricate tapestry of parenting practices and familial patterns forged by lesbians and same-sex attracted women in Britain and Australia between 1945 and 2000. It forefronts the unique lived experiences of these women, as they navigated the complexities of desire, love, and family formation amidst the shifting cultural, legal, and medical attitudes towards female same-sex desire in the late 20th century. Through a rich blend of nearly 100 original oral history interviews conducted by the author, Lesbian Intimacies and Family Life unveils the subjective histories of lesbian intimacy during this transformative period, showcasing the vast array of experiences and tracing the evolving patterns of relationship and family formation.

In addition to the oral histories, the book incorporates a comprehensive analysis of representations of lesbian intimacy in literature, press articles, medical texts, and archival material. This multidisciplinary approach sheds light on how changing political and cultural concepts of sexuality impacted individual and collective attitudes. By adopting a transnational perspective, Jennings uncovers how feminist and lesbian networks between Britain and Australia fostered knowledge sharing and played a pivotal role in shaping familial practices in both countries. This includes the adoption of reproductive technologies and alternative routes into motherhood, contributing to the broader transformation of familial structures.

Furthermore, this book delves into the rise of divorce and challenges to traditional marriage practices during the period. It highlights how lesbian relationships provided alternative models of interpersonal relations, influencing broader patterns of sexuality and helping redefine notions of the family in the modern era. Through its insightful exploration, Lesbian Intimacies and Family Life offers a profound understanding of the complex interplay between sexuality, gender, and family dynamics, shedding light on the historical roots and ongoing significance of lesbian intimacy and family life in shaping our understanding of relationships and society.

Weight: 594g
Dimension: 241 x 164 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350358874