Gendered underground: Men, women, and American punk rock, 1965–1995

Kara Margaret Kvaran, Purdue University

Abstract

This dissertation explores the unique gender politics of a specific American subculture. Using theoretical and historical methodology this project charts the evolution of gender roles within punk rock through the study of its various communities and manifestations. From punk rock's inception in the mid 1970s through its many American incarnations, the music and the subcultures that surround it have existed outside of, or in opposition to, mainstream American culture. This dissertation uncovers and examines these outsider subcultures, highlighting and exposing their gendered dimensions and dynamics. While punk rock was an oppositional subculture, and positioned itself counter to mainstream American values, the community's gender ideology followed a very traditional trajectory. A historical analysis of these understudied subcultures offers a fresh perspective on the gender revolution in the last third of the twentieth century. By examining the gender dynamics of a subculture that purposely positioned itself in opposition to mainstream American values we can further our understanding of socially constructed gender ideals and the function of youth subculture in American culture.

Degree

Ph.D.

Advisors

Gabin, Purdue University.

Subject Area

American history|Music|Gender studies

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