Project Abstract

Exploring the Representation of Gender and Sexuality in 21st-Century Young Adult Fiction This project aims to investigate the evolving portrayal of gender and sexuality in contemporary young adult (YA) literature, a genre that has witnessed a remarkable surge in popularity and cultural significance over the past two decades. As the millennial generation and Generation Z have come of age, YA fiction has emerged as a powerful platform for exploring complex issues of identity, relationships, and social change. The central premise of this study is that YA literature, with its vast readership and cultural influence, plays a crucial role in shaping the perspectives and experiences of young people navigating the complexities of gender and sexuality in the 21st century. By analyzing a diverse selection of recent YA novels, this project seeks to uncover the ways in which authors are representing and challenging traditional notions of gender identity, sexual orientation, and the fluidity of human experience. Through a comprehensive textual analysis, the project will examine the narrative strategies, character development, and thematic representations employed by contemporary YA authors to portray the experiences of LGBTQIA+ characters, as well as the ways in which traditional gender roles and norms are being subverted or reimagined. Additionally, the study will consider the broader social and cultural contexts that have influenced the evolution of gender and sexuality narratives in YA fiction, including the rise of social movements, changes in legal and political landscapes, and shifting societal attitudes. The significance of this project lies in its potential to contribute to our understanding of the ways in which literature, as a powerful cultural medium, can shape and reflect the lived experiences of young people. By closely examining the representation of gender and sexuality in YA fiction, the project aims to shed light on the ways in which these narratives may reinforce, challenge, or transform the perspectives and identities of their readers. Furthermore, the findings of this study have the potential to inform educational and literary practices, as well as broader social dialogues around diversity, inclusion, and the empowerment of marginalized voices. By highlighting the diverse and complex ways in which gender and sexuality are portrayed in contemporary YA fiction, the project may inspire further research, curriculum development, and critical discussions that prioritize the representation and experiences of LGBTQIA+ individuals in literature and beyond. Overall, this project represents a timely and vital investigation into the evolving landscape of gender and sexuality in 21st-century young adult fiction. By illuminating the narratives, tropes, and trends that are shaping the literary landscape, the study aims to contribute to our collective understanding of the transformative power of literature and its capacity to reflect, challenge, and shape the lived experiences of young people.

Project Overview