Contextual Studies - Representation to Sex and Sexuality

Sexuality - Distinct from Gender or Biology

                - The expression of sexual identity through internal feelings and external behaviour.

                 - Can also refer to sexual activity (In particular visual representatives)

Visual Presentations of sexual expression (eroticism, pornography)

Identify representations of sexual expressions  (LBGT, Asexualsims Pansexualism)

Eroticism - Aesthetic depiction of sexuality; may not show nudity

Pornography - Explicit depiction of sexuality; usually via nudity and graphic sexual activity.

Media censorship

depictions of sex and sexuality in media traditionally mediated by external censors.

Uk -Broadcasting legislation, watchdogs (Ofcom)

US - FCC (Federal CommunicationsCommissionn)

Moral Majority also act as external watchdogs (Mary Whitehouse, National Press)

Sexual representation in tv and film historically tightly controlled until 1970's liberalistation

First portrayals of nudity and gay characters - 

Stereotypes

Libertine

Camp

Butch

Asexual

Sexuality and Iconography

Ellen DeGeneres

Feminist Gay Icon

Came out in 4th season and the show was dropped in the 5th.

queer theory

argues that gender and sexuality are social constructs informed by media and representation

Alternative to gay and lesbian critical theory which places sexuality in historical, social and political context.

Allows for reinterpretation of mainstream heteronormativity

The Unconsious - represed or sublimated sexual desire expressed through subtext