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Abstract

This dissertation examines the way in which homosexuality emerged and interacted with race during the Harlem Renaissance. By analysing the literature and performance culture of the Harlem Renaissance, this dissertation argues that the Renaissance was shaped largely by both homosexual and queer influences making it “as gay was it was black”. Furthermore, this dissertation aims to locate the “homosexual voice” of Harlem’s cultural artefacts as part of a greater academic project to ground LGBTQ+ existence in consistent, balanced historical narrative and discussion. Firstly, an historical overview will be presented that explores the emergence and development of homosexuality in early twentieth century America and its social, political and cultural implications. Whilst the Harlem Renaissance is a unique space and place for homosexuality in early twentieth century America, it is vital to understand the various factors which led to this development. Secondly, Chapter Two aims to explore the interaction of gender, race and homosexuality through the historic context of the African-American female homosexual in Harlem to greater understand the differing historic and social treatment of homosexual women. Finally, Chapters Three and Four explore various cultural artefacts such as music, prose, poetry and gender impersonation that evidence Harlem’s “homosexual voice” and these chapters are focussed respectively on male and female homosexuals. Using a wide source base, including interviews with prominent Renaissance contributors and documentaries, supports further understanding of those artefacts and their social, political, and cultural importance in both founding and grounding queer cultural tradition.

Course: American Studies and History - BA (Hons) - C1690

Date Deposited: 2021-03-11

URI/permalink: https://library.port.ac.uk/dissert/dis13688.html