Graduate Program

English

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Semester of Degree Completion

2007

Thesis Director

Olga Abella

Thesis Committee Member

Fern Kory

Thesis Committee Member

Letitia Moffitt

Abstract

The history of GLBTQ YA (Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning Young Adult) literature has seen the introduction of very small amounts of fiction over the years. Publication of the first YA gay novel in 1969 opened the doors for many writers interested in pursuing the genre. However, even since this year (the year of the semi-liberation of gays during Stonewall) we have only seen a small amount of titles provided to young readers. In the past decade, interest has begun to turn to a more accepting, emotional and physical based portrayal of GLBTQ teens in their literature.

Since the onset of the genre, we have seen the introduction of secondary homosexual characters, emotional expressions of homosexuality, embracing homosexuality through analyzing different types, protagonist reaction to homosexuality. It is not until the past decade that authors are willing to depict homosexuality fully, embracing out protagonists. It is through my reading of these numerous YA GLBTQ novels that I decided to present another perspective for teens.

Gay males have a breadth of literature available in comparison to that available to lesbians. Through the development of my thesis, I present a lesbian protagonist whose strongest relationship in life is that with her girlfriend. The homosexual relationship is the stronghold of her life, offering strength and motivation to face her fears, failures, and hardships head on. This thesis has nestled into the field, presenting diverse scenarios, yet holding true to the initial purpose: evoking change for homosexuals as well as heterosexuals.

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