This study is based on Judith Butler's fundamental theories from Gender Trouble (1990) and Bodies That Matter (1993) as the main analytical lens to explore the complex relationship between gender and violence in a selection of short stories from Joyce Carol Oates' collections. Oates' works provide a rich setting for this investigation as they develop complex narratives that violate social norms and expectations. Collections such as Heat and Other Tales (1991), Haunted: Tales of the Grotesque (1994), I Am No One You Know: Stories (2004), Dear Husband (2009), and Sourland (2010) offer a stimulating context for exploring the implications of drag theory and performativity as proposed by Butler. The present study investigates the effects of societal gender constructs on individual behavior, interpersonal relationships, and autonomy, focusing on conformity and non-conformity in Joyce Carol Oates' diverse characters. The research analyzes characters' experiences in violent situations, whether as victims or perpetrators and examines their responses and underlying motivations. Here, various consequences of defying gender norms, such as internalized guilt, anxiety, and a feeling of social alienation are clarified. By analyzing these connections, the research aims to challenge long-standing beliefs and emphasize the significance of understanding the complex interplay between gender and violence in shaping personal experiences. Ultimately, this research emphasizes how Oates' stories inspire critical thought about how gender norms and societal expectations may both empower and constrain people in their quest for self-realization and personal agency.
