Multiple constructions of lesbian identity: an analysis of theoretical narratives on the formation of lesbian subjectivity

Abstract

This article aims to analyze different theoretical discourses that aim to identify and describe the formation of lesbian identity. In order to do that, we propose a resumption of the main narratives of the subjective experience of lesbianism, namely political lesbianism or radical lesbianism, with contributions by Sheila Jeffreys and Jill Johnston; postmodernism,  through readings of Judith Butler and Paul B. Preciado; and materialist lesbianism, under the prism of Monique Wittig, Linda Alcoff and Teresa de Lauretis. In addition, we will demonstrate how the theoretical contribution of lesbianism presents an important perspective to the themes of feminism, gender, sexuality, performativity and identity politics.