Deaftopias

Deaftopia is a theoretical concept that stems from the synergy of Utopian Studies, Deaf Studies and Culture Studies in the analysis of discourses in Sign Language Peoples’ (SLPs) cultural productions. Deaftopian narratives engage in knowledge deriving from Deaf epistemologies, Deaf Culture and Deaf History. This chapter focuses on fictional narratives expressed through writing or signing, whether in print format, live-performed or filmed in novels, serial novels, short stories, short-films and visuature performances. The Deaftopian discourses consisting of both utopian and dystopian transgressive ideals presented here are exclusively produced by Deaf signers, persons who know sign language; thus becoming leverages of Deaf empowerment and being engaged with the sustainability of Sign Languages and Deaf Culture.