https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1HN05NhdtzP-LytjmIvk0sAiWd5Euu9tU-3BP4vS1-7o/edit?usp=sharing_eil&ts=5e992785
Representation of one’s particular identity in the media can be an extremely validating experience, especially if the identity in question is one marginalized by institutions within society. It is only natural to seek out representation in order to feel normal and secure in a particular identity or ideology, but when the media offers little to no portrayal of certain groups, viewers must get creative. During his career as a scholar, José Esteban Muñoz researched the theory of Disidentification in great depth. Disidentification is the practice of receiving one particular image and misrecognizing it as something else. Muñoz particularly examines disidentification as practiced by queer people of color as they are able to identify their unique experiences with certain aspects of the media even without having their own stories told. Thanks to the Internet, the practice of disidentification is more present than ever. Websites that aggregate fan-made media such as Archive of Our Own, Wattpad or Tumblr provide fans of television shows, books and movies the opportunity to depict their disidentifications through art, literature and more. In the BBC Series Merlin, many fans disidentify the heterosexual platonic relationship between the characters of Merlin and Arthur as a loving homosexual relationship. In this paper, we will explore queer disidentification practiced in fan-based media inspired by the show Merlin.
