Queer as Folklore. The Hidden Queer History of Myths and Monsters

An exploration of queer history like never before, "Queer as Folklore" spans across centuries and continents, uncovering the overlooked heroes and villains embedded in storytelling, magic, and fantasy. With visuals sourced from global archives, galleries, and museums, each chapter delves into the queer past of various mythic and folklore figures, both ancient and contemporary. Sacha Coward leaves no stone unturned, guiding you from ancient Greece to the spotlight of RuPaul's Drag Race, with stops at cross-dressing pirates, radical fairies, and the final resting places of the 'queerly departed.' Historically, queer communities have found refuge in shadowed corners and created havens within hidden worlds. However, these forgotten tales of perseverance deserve recognition. At any Pride celebration, you'll witness a vibrant array of papier-mâché unicorns, drag performers with mermaid tails, and an abundance of fairy wings. These aren’t mere decorations; they are deeply rooted queer symbols. To fully grasp the identity of queer individuals today, it’s crucial to revisit and understand these complex stories from the past.