Female Sexuality on Trial: A Queer and Intersectional Analysis of 19th Century Scottish Court Records
Lead Research Organisation:
University of Glasgow
Department Name: College of Arts
Abstract
Understandings of female sexuality in 19th century Britain remain predetermined by binary notions identifying the
bourgeois 'Angel of the House' and the working-class prostitute as contrasting categories. This project utilises a new
queer methodology to trouble assumptions around 'normative' and 'transgressive' sexualities, employing nuanced
understandings of same-sex intimacy, sex work, and more. An analysis of Scottish court records will explore the literal
legal definitions of 'normative' sexualities while providing insight into life outside the courtroom through depositions.
The resulting project will represent a departure from existing literature which searches for 'queer subjects' and retains
a focus on the English experience.
bourgeois 'Angel of the House' and the working-class prostitute as contrasting categories. This project utilises a new
queer methodology to trouble assumptions around 'normative' and 'transgressive' sexualities, employing nuanced
understandings of same-sex intimacy, sex work, and more. An analysis of Scottish court records will explore the literal
legal definitions of 'normative' sexualities while providing insight into life outside the courtroom through depositions.
The resulting project will represent a departure from existing literature which searches for 'queer subjects' and retains
a focus on the English experience.
Organisations
People |
ORCID iD |
| Rebecca Williamson (Student) |