Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Masculine
Most of the definitions that I found for 'masculine' were what I expected. Dictionary.com gave the definition as being characteristic to men or the traits of men, listing strength and boldness. This is a traditional and archaic description, and is usually what most people think of when they hear the word 'masculine'. Other sources offered the idea that masculinity was for the most part a stereotype in the world today. The Media Awareness Network lists the common stereotypes attributed to masculinity in the media. Many stereotypes show men as violent, self-sufficient, and attractive. These are characteristics of the 'ideal' man, and many boys and men wish to become such a man. I think that this stereotype hardly encompasses the all the characteristics and traits of men, and has a terribly narrow view. It is unfair to most men and boys to assume that they are all like this, even if many of them hope to be. Men can need help, and be emotional, but societal views on the point do not allow them to appear in such a manner. If a man is seen as weak, he is scorned and looked down upon by his peers, because the stereotypes are so strong and deeply embedded in modern society.
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I strongly agree with James in saying that these common definitions of men are stereotypical. In our society, men are always expected to be strong and unemotional. Any diversion to what is considered "feminine" causes them to be looked at as being weak or "womanly." That's why I do believe that it is harder than ever today for guys to express themselves freely without fear of being ridiculed or ostracized for any of their actions that do not conform to the typical standards of "masculinity" in our society.
ReplyDeleteI agree with what James is saying. Many boys strive to be like the male action heroes that they see in movies and on TV. When you ask a boy what he wants to be when he grows up, a common answer is to be a fireman, because firemen are portrayed as strong, honorable, and brave. If a male does not adhere to the typical standards of masculinity, he is ridiculed for it. For example, homosexual males in our society are ridiculed because they have deviated from the standard, which is to be in a relationship with a female. This idea of masculinity is so deeply rooted into our society that it will take some time before any major change occurs.
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