Transgression has become a key concept for understanding our present cultural moment
Philippe Katerine performing on a giant screen during the Opening Ceremony of the Olympic Games Paris 2024. Photograph: Ludovic Marin, Pool/Getty ImagesIt was hardly surprising that the drag-queen parody of the Last Supper that opened the Paris Olympics on July 26th met widespread disapproval. It seems to me that this came as no surprise to the parody’s organisers either. In fact, I would suggest that on their own terms they hit the bullseye.
The deepest purpose and intent of the parody with that the Olympics opened was not to scandalise or to offend , but to transgress.Historians Margaret MacMillan and Roy Foster: ‘We have far too many echoes of the 1930s, with too many crises overlapping’Lara Marlowe: A childless cat lady from California’s guide to the trendy terms and themes in US politics
As is widely known, the word “queer” has often been used as a deliberately offensive version of the word “homosexual” Given this history, it may be necessary to clarify that the significance of the term has changed, and it is now used dispassionately by both the advocates and the opponents of queer theory. The adjective “queer” and the verb “to queer” are found throughout the abundant academic literature.
By way of apology, spokespersons and directors defaulted to notions of inclusiveness, goodwill, generosity and solidarity, thereby inviting – in a transgressively subtle way – all objectors who share these values to put up, shut up, and grow up. In a striking passage of his New Testament letter to the Philippians, St Paul urges believers to think about “whatever is true, noble, good, pure, honourable and praiseworthy”.
Ireland Latest News, Ireland Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Rite and Reason: Sitting on the fence during conflict is a form of taking sidesRather than abstain from a dispute or race to support one or other side, we can draw on wisdom that teaches us even fierce disagreements can be resolved if the element of community is introduced
Read more »
The reason Rory McIlroy represents Ireland at the 2024 Olympics and not Team GBCo Down's Rory McIlroy gets his campaign for golf under way at the 2024 Paris Olympics on Thursday and he will be doing it under the Irish flag
Read more »
‘It gives young people confidence’ - Are hospitality jobs a rite of passage?Hospitality and other public-facing jobs are hugely beneficial in growing young people’s confidence, according to a leading Irish chef.
Read more »
Your Ultimate Paris Olympics Guide (So Far)Your Ultimate Paris Olympics Guide (So Far) Your Ultimate Paris Olympics Guide (So Far) Your Ultimate Paris Olympics Guide (So Far)
Read more »
Rite & Reason: Fears of the ‘vanishing Irish’ proved unfounded in the 1950s, and they’re unfounded nowRite & Reason: The average age at marriage is now markedly higher than in the days of The Vanishing Irish. Or is marriage vanishing?
Read more »
There may have been two St Patricks, and St Brigid might not have existed. But there are no doubts about JesusRite & Reason: The self-sacrifice of Jesus affects us more than you might think, and more than any saint ever did.
Read more »