Representation of homosexuals in humor magazines: The example of Uykusuz

This thesis study titled as Representation of Homosexuals in Humor Magazines: The Example of Uykusuz, is built on the axis of humor and identity concepts to determine how homosexuals are represented in the Uykusuz; the most popular humor magazine in Turkey. Twenty-four different issues of the Uykusuz, which has been in circulation since 2007, published between August 2014 and August 2016 are examined. Twenty-two of the thirty-nine cartoons related to homosexuals and homosexuality are analyzed by the method of semiotics analysis. Semiotic analysis that helps to reveal what lies beyond behind the curtain of apparent is used in this study to show which signs and signifiers have these caricatures, as much as to understand what is signified. In addition, the study is focused on which messages are given by these caricatures in the level of denotations and connotations and what kind of mythical contents they contain. At the end of the study, looking at the way of homosexuals and homosexuality are presented, the result of the Uykusuz magazine legitimized the dominant gender stereotypes, was reached. Furthermore, it is found that the magazine displayed a cynical/mocking attitude towards homosexuals takes place beyond its critical approach against established values and transferred this perspective to the reader. Keywords: Humor, Identity, Homosexuality, Uykusuz Magazine, Semiology