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Engorging the lesbian clitoris.

Debra Roth

    Journal of Lesbian Studies
    |May 14, 2014
    PubMed
    Summary

    This study examines how male genital-associated language harms lesbian subjectivity. It proposes the "engorged lesbian clitoris" concept to challenge phallic dominance in everyday language and desire.

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    Area of Science:

    • Gender Studies
    • Psychoanalytic Theory
    • Linguistics

    Background:

    • Colloquial language often links male genitals to power and authority.
    • This linguistic hegemony negatively impacts lesbian subjectivity and embodiment.
    • Existing theories, like Judith Butler's "lesbian phallus," provide a foundation for critique.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To analyze the injurious effects of phallocentric language on lesbian identity.
    • To theorize the "engorged lesbian clitoris" as a counter-narrative.
    • To challenge the unconscious cultural standards rooted in male anatomical metaphor.

    Main Methods:

    • Critical analysis of psychoanalytic theories (Freud, Lacan) regarding genitals and power.
    • Examination of vernacular language and its metaphorical associations.
    • Theoretical development of the "engorged lesbian clitoris" concept.

    Main Results:

    • Male genital metaphors in language create a hierarchy disadvantaging lesbian subjectivity.
    • The concept of the "engorged lesbian clitoris" offers a way to reframe female genital significance.
    • Psychoanalytic and linguistic analysis reveals an ingrained cultural bias favoring male anatomy.

    Conclusions:

    • The "engorged lesbian clitoris" can be elevated to neutralize phallic dominance in language.
    • Challenging phallocentric language is crucial for affirming lesbian embodiment and desire.
    • Reclaiming and revaluing female genital metaphors can disrupt existing power structures.
    Keywords:
    ButlerClitorisJ. cultural unconsciouslesbianlesbian phalluspsychoanalysis

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