Review of 'The Ashgate research companion to queer theory: identity, discourse, normativity, and relationality', edited by Noreen Giffney and Michael O'Rourke, Farnham, UK and Burlington, VT, Ashgate Publishing, 2009, 539 pp., £85.00 (hardback), ISBN 978-0-7546-7135-0

Abstract

There are plenty of texts providing introductions to Queer Theory. Indeed, after surveying the field, the more passionate student of Queer Theory, the interested researcher and even casually dabbling readers may begin to que(e)ry if this theory extends very much beyond some key ideas in the original works of Michel Foucault, Judith Butler, Eve Sedgewick and, maybe, more recently David Halperin, Judith Halberstam and Lee Edelman ... and the plethora of works that (re)introduce them (perhaps in simpler forms). At worst, investigation will uncover texts that claim the task of Queer Theory is complete, its definition finite and its allocation strictly under gay, lesbian and bisexual studies. At best, the seeker will find that there have also been works that critique, deconstruct or apply Queer ideas in new arenas. But where is the next step? Who is taking it? What is the new theory in Queer? Contrary to appearances, there have been multiple 'next steps' of varying kinds in Queer Theory, located not just in North America and the UK, but also in other countries (this book also includes work from such countries as Australia, France, Ireland and Canada). These steps are being taken by a variety of theorists whose names may be initially familiar from their introductory texts (Linda Garber, Michael O'Rourke, Nikki Sullivan, Annabelle Willox, Calvin Thomas and others) but also from their continued attempts within their own interest areas to extend Queer Theory considerations (Jon Binnie in geography, Patrick. E. Johnson in 'quare'/race studies, Patricia MacCormack in film etc.). And in combination, these theorists suggest a variety of Queer Theory offerings organised into four 'key concerns' within 'The Ashgate research companion to queer theory': identity, discourse, normativity, and relationality. These key concerns are reflective of the field and are not new in and of themselves, but presented all together these pieces (re)present some of the latest developments in the field. Overall, this volume combats any real or perceived stagnation of Queer Theory in several ways.