New Books in Critical Theory Chris Washington, "Nonbinary Jane Austen" (U Minnesota Press, 2025)
Aug 2, 2025
Chris Washington, Associate Professor of English at Francis Marion University and author of "Nonbinary Jane Austen," explores Jane Austen's radical reimagining of gender. The conversation delves into how Austen's work challenges traditional binary frameworks, advocating for a pluralistic interpretation. Washington highlights the fluidity of gender representation, particularly through characters like Lady Susan. They connect classic literature to contemporary gender theories, revealing Austen's relevance in discussions about identity and the complexities of societal norms.
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Austen's Vision of Nonbinary Gender
- Jane Austen's work envisions abolishing gender exclusivity, suggesting a nonbinary future.
- Her novels challenge the 18th-century two-sex gender model to open plurality and possibility.
Trans Liberation vs. Liberal Reform
- Trans liberation rejects liberal reform and seeks abolition of oppressive institutions.
- True liberation begins by admitting complicity and building solidarity for systemic change.
Nonbinary as Pre-Originary Flow
- Non-binary precedes binary gender, existing as a pre-originary flow beyond individual categories.
- Austin taps into this fluidity to imagine abolition of cis-heteronormative constraints.
