This term paper is set out to investigate the rise of fanfictions, the reasons as to why they became particularly popular among women and what sort of circumstances and settings are used the most.
However, considering these settings, this term paper will put its main focus on homosexual relationships/fanfictions, to investigate the way masculinity is depicted. Since there are many instances in which men resemble women, it raises the question. Do fanfiction writers change the image of masculinity in order to experiment and act out their sexual fantasies because it is easier and more enjoyable to write about partners, who are considered „equal‟ in terms of their sex?
Table of Contents
Introduction
1. Definition of Masculinity
2. Fanfiction
2.1 Slash Fanfiction
2.1.1 “A/B/O” and “Omegaverse”
2.1.2 “Mpreg”
3. Masculinity within the Omegaverse
4. Opinions about Slash Fanfiction
Conclusion
Objectives and Topics
This research paper investigates the evolution of fanfiction and its role in reinterpreting traditional concepts of masculinity. It specifically examines how homosexual tropes in slash fanfiction, such as the "Omegaverse" and "Mpreg," allow writers to deconstruct and reconstruct male gender roles.
- The development and cultural significance of fanfiction communities.
- Analysis of "Slash Fanfiction" and the rise of homoerotic tropes.
- Exploration of biological and social hierarchies in the "Omegaverse."
- Examination of reader and writer perspectives on gender representation.
Excerpt from the Book
2.1.1 “A/B/O” and “Omegaverse”
A particular interesting aspect of the fandom community is that it involves many open-minded people, especially when it comes to popular tropes within stories (Jamison 317). There will always be readers, who want to read and enjoy your stories and if not then they will look for other ones while still accepting the writer’s opinion or kink (Jamison 317). A particular contemporary kink among fandoms is the Alpha/Beta/Omega universe (A/B/O) (Jamison 317). Star Trek’s episode “Amok Time” was once again the reason for a lot of changes in the fandom community. It influenced and inspired current popular tropes like A/B/O and the omegaverse (Jamison 318). In that specific episode, due to his mating cycle, Spock was forced to have sex in order to prevent experiencing “excruciating pain, insanity and potential death” (Jamison 318). Naturally, fanfiction writers re-invented this particular idea and wrote stories in which Kirk was the only option to save Spock (Jamison 318).
While the arrangements might change from author to author, it is typical that within A/B/O and omegaverse stories society is based on wolf pack hierarchies and thereby divided into three social statuses (Jamison 317). The alpha is the sexual dominant (Jamison 317); they are physically larger, more aggressive and have “giant penises” (norabombay).
Summary of Chapters
Introduction: Provides an overview of the rise of fanfiction and defines the research scope regarding the depiction of masculinity in homosexual narratives.
1. Definition of Masculinity: Examines the societal construction of masculinity, contrasting traditional sex roles with modern, more fluid perceptions.
2. Fanfiction: Traces the history of fanfiction, from fanzines to the digital era, and introduces the origins of slash fiction.
2.1 Slash Fanfiction: Explores the emergence of slash fiction as a medium for fans to focus on intimate male relationships.
2.1.1 “A/B/O” and “Omegaverse”: Details the mechanics of the Alpha/Beta/Omega hierarchy and its influence on sexual dynamics in fanfiction.
2.1.2 “Mpreg”: Analyzes the trope of male pregnancy and its role in challenging traditional gendered reproductive roles.
3. Masculinity within the Omegaverse: Discusses how tropes like the Omegaverse physically and socially reconstruct male characters, often blurring lines between genders.
4. Opinions about Slash Fanfiction: Surveys diverse perspectives on slash fiction, addressing themes of progressiveness and the representation of queer identities.
Conclusion: Summarizes findings, noting that slash fanfiction functions as a complex tool for expressing sexual desire and critiquing social norms.
Keywords
Fanfiction, Slash, Masculinity, Gender, Omegaverse, A/B/O, Mpreg, Queer, Sexuality, Tropes, Social Construct, Representation, Fandom, Alpha, Omega
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core focus of this research paper?
The paper explores how the depiction of masculinity is challenged and reimagined within the genre of slash fanfiction, particularly through specialized tropes.
What are the primary themes discussed?
The main themes include gender construction, sexual hierarchies, the evolution of fandom culture, and the role of creative writing in exploring sexual desires.
What is the main objective of the study?
The primary goal is to investigate whether slash fanfiction serves as a medium to deconstruct traditional male gender roles and societal boundaries.
Which methodology is employed in this research?
The author utilizes a qualitative analytical approach, examining existing literature, fanfiction case studies, and sociological concepts regarding gender and sexuality.
What is covered in the main body of the paper?
The main body explains the historical development of fanfiction, defines specific tropes like "Omegaverse" and "Mpreg," and analyzes their impact on perceived masculinity.
Which keywords best characterize this work?
Key terms include Fanfiction, Slash, Masculinity, Omegaverse, A/B/O, Mpreg, Gender, and Queer representation.
How does the "Omegaverse" specifically affect the portrayal of male characters?
The Omegaverse introduces biological hierarchies that often grant male characters "feminine" roles or physical traits, effectively blurring the lines between traditional binary gender expectations.
How do writers and readers perceive the social implications of "Mpreg"?
While some view it as a harmless exploration of fantasy, the paper notes it is often used to challenge traditional reproductive norms, though critics sometimes point to the complex consent issues surrounding heat and rut cycles.
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- Leonie Quicker (Autor:in), 2019, How and Why does Slash Fanfiction alter the Depiction of Masculinity?, München, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/1151619
