Abstract

RIOS, Luís Felipe. The paradox of pleasure: work, homosexuality and styles of being a man in an Afro-Brazilian religious nation in Rio de Janeiro. Etnográfica [online]. 2012, vol.16, n.1, pp.53-74. ISSN 0873-6561.

The article analyzes the insertion of men with homosexual practices in an Afro-Brazilian religious nation in Rio de Janeiro Candomblé. In this religion, the articulations between gender performances and religious work constitute styles of being a man, configuring a sexual hierarchy. It is argued that mediating positions between temple and world can be assumed by the mannish men (okós), but are not permitted to the effeminates (adés). As sexual tastes are signalized by gestures and props, a paradox is created to homosexual men: to present themselves, at the same time, mannish and feminine in order to be respected by the community, and yet clearly show who and what they want sexually.

Keywords : gender; work; African-Brazilian religions; male homosexuality; discrimination.

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