Bringing together forty-two groundbreaking essays--many of them already classics--<STRONG><EM>The Lesbian and Gay Studies Reader</EM></STRONG> provides a much-needed introduction to the contemporary state of lesbian/gay studies, extensively illustrating the range, scope, diversity, appeal, and power of the work currently being done in the field. Featuring essays by such prominent scholars as Judith Butler, John D''Emilio, Kobena Mercer, Adrienne Rich, Gayle Rubin, and Eve Kosofsky Sedgwick, <STRONG><EM>The Lesbian and Gay Studies Reader</EM></STRONG> explores a multitude of sexual, ethnic, racial, and socio-economic experiences. <BR><BR>Ranging across disciplines including history, literature, critical theory, cultural studies, African American studies, ethnic studies, sociology, anthropology, psychology, classics, and philosophy, this anthology traces the inscription of sexual meanings in all forms of cultural expression. Representing the best and most significant English language wor