title: Queer criticism and sexual normativity: the case of Pee-wee Herman.
abstract: One of the most useful aspects of queer theory is the critical force that the perspective provides scholars. The tenets of queer theory provide scholars with a model to interrogate how sexuality and other differences play a fundamental role in rhetorical practice. Focusing on differences rather than similarities, queer critics seek to dismantle hierarchies by blurring the definitions of specific identity categories. A framework for queer rhetorical criticism is described and illustrated with a variety of examples from popular culture. The model is further illustrated through an examination of the body of work of Pee-wee Herman.
authors.affiliation: University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras, San Juan 00931-2097, USA. tslagle@earthlink.net
authors.forename: R Anthony
authors.initials: RA
authors.lastname: Slagle
mesh_terms: D020010:Heterosexuality; D006716:Homosexuality; D018451:Homosexuality, Male; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008402:Mass Media; D009040:Motion Pictures; D011287:Prejudice; D011582:Psychological Theory; D013690:Television