Mark Cornwall – Queer Masculinity in the Bohemian Lands, 1930–1945: The Joys and Fears

Join us for an engaging lecture by Mark Cornwall from the University of Southampton as part of the Literary Studies Forum series, focusing on the historical transformations of masculinity from the 19th century to the present.

Topic: Queer Masculinity in the Bohemian Lands, 1930–1945: The Joys and Fears 💬
This lecture delves into the complexities of queer masculinity during the tumultuous mid-20th century in the Bohemian lands. By examining new literary and legal sources, Cornwall reveals both the joys and anxieties faced by individuals expressing their sexuality within a heteronormative society. The 1930s marked a period of increased activism in Prague, pushing for homosexual emancipation, reflected in various texts such as journals and novels that offer rich insights into the lives and identities of queer individuals.

While a vibrant sub-culture in Prague encouraged a more confident expression of homosexuality, the surrounding political and social frameworks remained repressive. Such conditions fostered a grim reality where suicide and blackmail were prevalent, frequently highlighted in the Czech press. Many sought solace abroad, while others cultivated discreet spaces at home to express their sexual identities. The war years brought further constraints under the Nazi Protectorate, yet evidence from court cases demonstrates how queer men found ways to seek pleasure amid societal scrutiny. From 1930 to 1945, some asserted their own definitions of masculinity, navigating the tensions of shifting social attitudes.

📍 Location: Na Florenci 1420/3, 110 00 Prague, Czech Republic
🎟️ Admission: Free and no registration required!
🔗 Event Link