Marginality

Definition

Marginality refers to the social, cultural, or economic status of individuals or groups that exist on the fringes of mainstream society. This concept often highlights how certain communities, defined by characteristics such as race, gender, sexuality, or disability, experience exclusion and discrimination. In this context, understanding marginality involves examining the complexities of identity and representation, especially as they relate to those who have been historically overlooked or misrepresented in various forms of art and media.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Diane Arbus is known for her striking photographs that capture the lives and identities of people often considered marginalized, such as individuals with disabilities, the LGBTQ+ community, and those living in poverty.
2. Arbus's work challenges traditional notions of beauty and normalcy by presenting her subjects with empathy and raw honesty, allowing viewers to confront their own biases.
3. Her photographs often emphasize the humanity of marginalized individuals, encouraging a deeper understanding of their experiences and realities.
4. Arbus's focus on marginality is not just about documenting difference; it's about revealing the social dynamics that create these divisions in society.
5. Through her lens, Arbus critiques the societal norms that categorize people into 'normal' and 'other,' prompting discussions about inclusion and acceptance.

Review Questions

• How does Diane Arbus's portrayal of marginalized communities challenge societal norms?
  • Diane Arbus's work challenges societal norms by showcasing marginalized communities in a way that compels viewers to confront their biases. Her photographs present individuals who are often deemed 'other' with dignity and depth, disrupting conventional ideas about beauty and normality. By capturing the everyday lives of these subjects, Arbus invites her audience to empathize with their experiences rather than view them through a lens of pity or sensationalism.
• In what ways does Arbus's exploration of marginality contribute to discussions about identity and representation in art?
  • Arbus's exploration of marginality significantly contributes to discussions about identity and representation by emphasizing the complexities of being an outsider. Her work illustrates how social constructs surrounding identity shape individual experiences, particularly for those at the fringes of society. By highlighting diverse identities through her photography, Arbus challenges artists and viewers alike to consider whose stories are told and whose are silenced within the art world.
• Evaluate how Diane Arbus's photography reflects broader societal attitudes towards marginalized communities during her time.
  • Diane Arbus's photography reflects broader societal attitudes towards marginalized communities by exposing both the fascination and discomfort surrounding difference in mid-20th century America. Her images capture moments that reveal both vulnerability and strength among her subjects, which reflects a society grappling with its views on identity. As audiences were confronted with her striking portrayals, it became clear that her work served as a mirror to societal prejudices while simultaneously pushing for greater acceptance and understanding of diversity in identity.

Related terms

Otherness: The perception or representation of individuals or groups as fundamentally different from and inferior to the dominant culture.

Intersectionality: A framework for understanding how various social identities (such as race, gender, class) overlap and contribute to unique experiences of oppression or privilege.

Representation: The depiction of individuals or groups in art, literature, or media, which can influence societal perceptions and reinforce or challenge stereotypes.