autotheory
Autotheory is a hybrid literary and critical form that blends autobiographical narrative with theoretical or philosophical argument. Proponents present personal experience as a source of knowledge and a lens for examining social structures, arguing that lived embodiment can illuminate concepts such as gender, race, sexuality, and power.
Origins and context: The term has been used in contemporary feminist, queer, and critical race studies to
Form and technique: Autotheory often interleaves scenes from the author’s life with essays, footnotes, or methodological
Criticism and discussion: Critics question the evidentiary status and potential for solipsism, though supporters argue that
Impact and scope: Autotheory has influenced contemporary essayistic and experimental writing, pedagogy, and cultural criticism, encouraging