Since its publication in 1990,Gender Troublehas become one of the key works of contemporary feminist theory, and an essential work for anyone interested in the study of gender, queer theory, or the politics of sexuality in culture. As Judith Butler writes in the major essay that stands as preface to the new edition, one point ofGender Troublewas 'not to prescribe a new gendered way of life, but to open of the field of possibility for gender.' Widely taught, and widely debated,Gender Troublecontinues to offer a powerful critique of heteronormativity and of the function of gender in the modern world. Judith Butler's new preface situatesGender Troublewithin the past decade of work on gender, and counters some common misconceptions about the book and its aims.