Art and Illness: Queer forms of survival between syphilis and AIDS

Art and Illness: Queer forms of survival between syphilis and AIDS

In an impressive comparison, Benjamin Gagnon-Chainey draws parallels in his analysis between two serious pandemics: syphilis in the 19th century and AIDS at the end of the 20th century. Both illnesses have not only caused illness, but have also strongly influenced cultural, political and scientific discourses. In particular, the author discusses how the experiences of these pandemics revive old myths and phobias and disorient both affected individuals and society.

The literary dialogue between Jean Floressas des Esseintes from “À Rebours” by Joris-Karl Huysmans and the character of Hervé Guibert in his AIDS writings is a central element of the work. Gagnon-Chainey illuminates how literature transforms pain, illness and death into creative processes and in this way stimulates reflection on life. The ethical and political aspects of the diseases do not necessarily take precedence over aesthetics, but rather come together in an exciting way.

A look at syphilis

But what do we know about syphilis? Loud WHO Syphilis is a bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI) that is preventable and curable. However, the disease is often asymptomatic or remains undetected. In 2022, an estimated eight million people aged 15 to 49 worldwide will contract syphilis.

Key groups particularly affected include gay men and other men who have sex with men. Transmission usually occurs orally, vaginally or anally. Untreated syphilis can lead to serious complications, particularly in pregnant women, where it leads to adverse birth outcomes in 50 to 80 percent of cases. Timely diagnosis and treatment are essential to avoid serious consequences.

The importance of education and prevention

The WHO recommends regular testing and consistent and correct use of condoms as preventive measures for high-risk groups of people. Pregnant women should be tested for syphilis at their first prenatal visit. This significantly reduces the risk of maternal and child transmission.

• Stadien der Syphilis:
  • Primäre Syphilis:
  • Sekundäre Syphilis:
  • Latente Syphilis:
  • Tertiäre Syphilis:

Research and therefore social perception of diseases such as syphilis and AIDS must be viewed in a preventative light. Gagnon-Chainey's work helps bring these themes back into cultural discourse, showing how art and literature not only reflect the personal experience of pain and illness, but also function as bold commentary on society.

Overall, it is clear that both syphilis and AIDS not only represent epidemiological challenges, but also have a deep impact on the cultural trends of their time. By understanding these connections, we can not only learn from the past, but also proactively shape our future.