What is the "heterosexual imaginary?"
- This refers to the romanticized view of heterosexuality that discourages analysis of heterosexuality as an organizing institution
- It maintains the illusion of a "perfect" heterosexuality, leaving it unquestioned
- Because of the heterosexual imaginary, no one examines how heterosexuality is learned or what keeps heterosexuality in place
- Conceals such issues as: marital rape, domestic violence, pay inequalities, gay-bashing, sexual harassment, unequal distribution of economic resources based on marital status, etc.
- Makes it seem as though heterosexuality is the only - or the only correct - sexuality; others different sexualities
- For example, most movies and television shows only depict straight couples
Example #1 - Cinderella and Prince Charming
|
Example #2 - Sleeping Beauty and Prince Phillip
|
The Heterosexual Imaginary in Action
Works Cited
Ingraham, Chrys. "Heterosexuality: It's Just Not Natural!"
Martin, Karin, and Emily Kazyak. "Hetero-Romantic Love and Heterosexiness in Children's G-Rated Films." Gender & Society 23 (2009)
Ingraham, Chrys. "Heterosexuality: It's Just Not Natural!"
Martin, Karin, and Emily Kazyak. "Hetero-Romantic Love and Heterosexiness in Children's G-Rated Films." Gender & Society 23 (2009)