Out of the Closet and onto the Bookshelf: Lesbian Liberation in Elena Fortún's Oculto Sendero

Abstract

This paper investigates Elena Fortún's lesbian Bildunsroman titled Oculto Sendero, published posthumously in 2016. By engaging with queer theory and gender studies, I explore how the author revisits traditional gender roles in 1920s Spain through her protagonist. Then, I outline the new lesbian identity this character begins to adopt by the end of the novel. This paper aims to bring visibility to lesbian identities and desire while also highlighting Fortún‟s impact on the Spanish literary tradition. Trigger warning: sexual assault, homophobia, gender-based violence