Boy's Love (BL) is a genre that portrays stories of love between male characters. This genre originated from Japan, and is called yaoi. Yaoi is a genre of homoerotic stories between male-male characters (japanese comics) that were developed in the 70's which were written by women for women. The genre covers manga, animation, movies, series, etc. In its earliest stage, this genre focused more on the sexual attraction and interaction of the characters. Over the years, the genre has evolved as more and more shows/series are created and especially as it spreads in Asia. Most of the stories created nowadays attempt to show more representation and delve into different gender and societal issues.
Some Key Terms
Yaoi - stories that are focused more on the sexual attraction and encounter of the characters
Shounen-ai - stories that are focused more on the romance and relationship of the characters
Danmei - Chinese term for boy's love
References
For a better understanding of the genre Boys' Love, you may check out the following references.
Yukari, F. (2020). The evolution of boys' love culture: can BL spark social change?. Retrieved from https://www.nippon.com/en/in-depth/d00607/#.~:text=Boys'%20%20is%20a%20genre.video%20games%2C%and%20other%20media.
Williams K.Ci. (2021). In boy's love shows, queer stories exist with pride. Retrieved from https://www.refinery29.com/en-us/2021/06/10490404/what-is-boy-love-genre-tv-shows
Emma. (2015). What is bl/yaoi/shounen-ai? [Definition and meaning]. Retrieved from https://honeysanime.com/what-is-blyaoi-definition-meaning/
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The Fujoshi Files: My Journey to Being Rotten
Non-FictionThis book records my adventure towards the amazing world of Boy's Love. Join me as I recount the happy and not-so-happy moments of being a rotten girl. Note: If you're not into this thing, still consider reading through. You might just pick up somet...
