Women and Gay Men in the Postwar Period

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Friendships between women and gay men captivated the American media in the opening decade of the 21st century. John Portmann places this curious phenomenon in its historical context, examining the changing social attitudes towards gay men in the postwar period and how their relationships with women have been portrayed in the media. As women and gay men both struggled toward social equality in the late 20th century, some women understood that defending gay men who were often accused of effeminacy was in their best interest. Joining forces carried both political and personal implications. Straight women used their influence with men to prevent bullying and combat homophobia. Beyond the bureaucratic fray, women found themselves in transformed roles with respect to gay men as their mothers, sisters, daughters, caregivers, spouses, voters, employers and best friends. In the midst of social hostility to gay men during the AIDS crisis of the 1980s and 1990s, a significant number of gay women volunteered to comfort the afflicted and fight reigning sexual values. Famous women such as Elizabeth Taylor and Barbra Streisand threw their support behind a detested minority, while countless ordinary women did the same across America. Portmann celebrates not only women who made the headlines but also those who did not. Looking at the links between the womens liberation and gay rights movements, and filled with concrete examples of personal and political relationships between straight women and gay men, Women and Gay Men in the Postwar Period is an engaging and accessible study which will be of interest to students and scholars of 20th- and 21st century social and gender history.

Reviews

For years gay mens lives have been profoundly touched by intimate friendships with women. Women and Gay Men in the Postwar Period offers a lively and beautifully written account of how, why and when these important relationships began to matter socially as well as politically. Here is a poignant story pitched to readers of all kindsgay and straight, young and oldinterested in learning more about queer survival in times of struggle as well as queer networks filled with unexpected pleasures and happiness. * Laura Doan, author of Disturbing Practices: History, Sexuality, and Womens Experience of Modern War *
John Portmanns Women and Gay Men in the Postwar Period is a clearly written exposition on how gay men and women, whether straight or lesbian, have forged enduring friendships and solidarities, despite some frictions. From Elizabeth Taylors attempt to rescue Montgomery Clift to the alliances forged in the ravages of the AIDS pandemic, Portmann writes with insight and ethical thoughtfulness and engages with a broad literature. A long-overdue treatment of a potent aspect of gender reflexivity. * Christopher Phelps, University of Nottingham, UK *
Though at first glance, it looks like a little nugget of a book... there is a tremendous amount of history, social change, absolute love and bravery to be discovered within. * Edge Media Network *

Author Bio

John Portmann is Professor of Religious Studies at the University of Virginia, USA.