Generation, reformation, transformation: The role of Roman Catholicism in the feminist analysis of American performance studies (Coco Fusco, Karen Finley)

Religious traditions are worthy of feminist study as an influence on performing artists' imagery, thematics, narrative structures, methodologies, and contexts of performance; without this study, our understanding and interpretation of such art will remain incomplete. Feminists in active religious practice are working for change within their communities, and have much in common with feminists working within the field of performance studies. This dissertation proposes a coalition between academic and religious feminists, exemplifying the possibilities of interaction between their disciplines. The introduction provides an overview of the connections between (and divisions separating) feminist theory, feminist theology, and performance art. Using Roman Catholicism as the focal religion of this project, three case studies of Catholic feminist groups demonstrate how performative techniques are used to further their projects and goals. Analyses of the works of Karen Finley and Coco Fusco detail how the Catholicism present in their personal lives became a significant presence in several of their performances. The final chapter reviews the connections between religious and academic feminism, suggests possible critical and sociopolitical benefits that may come from an alliance between these groups, and justifies centering this alliance in the area of performance.