The Space of Desire in Male Homosexual Relationships in the Boy Love Novel The Founder of Diabolism

Abstract

         This article aims to analyze the creation of a “space of desire” in the homosexual relationships of male characters in the Boys’ Love novel The Founder of Diabolism. The study finds that masculine space produces heteronormative desires alongside homosexual ones. The formation of an all-male society and the support and solidarity that come with the friendships of the male protagonist provide an opportunity for the characters to express their homosexual desires, leading to the development of profound same-sex relationships. Even though the all-male society operates under male norms and aligns with patriarchal values prioritizing heterosexual relationships, the male characters in homosexual relationships learn to negotiate their “space of desire” against these restrictive gender norms. By leveraging the narrative structure of the fantasy genre and its supernatural elements, they demand recognition and acceptance of their difference.