Masculinity

Definition

Masculinity refers to the attributes, behaviors, and roles generally associated with boys and men. It often includes characteristics such as strength, assertiveness, and dominance, shaping societal expectations of male identity. In various literary contexts, masculinity can reflect power dynamics, social critique, and the challenges faced by men in conforming to or rejecting these norms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Restoration drama often portrayed masculinity as a source of power, where male characters frequently exerted control over women and social situations.
2. The rise of the 'new man' in this era challenged traditional notions of masculinity, introducing vulnerability and emotional depth into male characters.
3. Critics like John Locke discussed masculinity in the context of rationality and virtue, suggesting that true manhood was associated with moral integrity and intellect.
4. Many Restoration plays employed satire to critique the rigid expectations of masculinity, highlighting the absurdities in male behavior when adhering to societal norms.
5. Masculine identity was frequently linked to notions of honor and reputation during the Restoration period, driving many characters' motivations and conflicts in drama.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of hegemonic masculinity appear in Restoration drama, and what are its implications for character dynamics?
  • Hegemonic masculinity in Restoration drama often manifests through male characters who display dominance and control over both their peers and female characters. This type of masculinity reinforces traditional power structures within the plays, allowing male characters to navigate social hierarchies while often sidelining women's voices. The implications for character dynamics are significant; male assertiveness is typically rewarded, while any deviation from these norms is met with ridicule or punishment.
• In what ways does Restoration drama critique toxic masculinity through its portrayal of male characters?
  • Restoration drama critiques toxic masculinity by showcasing the negative consequences of aggressive and emotionally repressive behaviors in male characters. Many plays depict men who prioritize dominance and emotional detachment over genuine connections or empathy, leading to personal failures or social ridicule. By exposing the vulnerabilities that arise from adhering to toxic masculine ideals, these dramas encourage audiences to question and rethink traditional notions of manhood.
• Evaluate how changing definitions of masculinity during the Restoration period reflect broader societal shifts and influence contemporary views on gender roles.
  • The changing definitions of masculinity during the Restoration period reflect significant societal shifts towards individualism and emotional expression. As the era introduced ideas about the 'new man' who could embrace vulnerability alongside strength, it laid the groundwork for ongoing discussions about gender roles that continue today. These evolving portrayals influenced contemporary views by challenging rigid binaries of masculinity and femininity, promoting a more inclusive understanding of gender identity that recognizes diverse expressions beyond traditional norms.

Related terms

Hegemonic Masculinity: A cultural concept that refers to the dominant form of masculinity that is valued in a given society, often characterized by traits like authority, control, and the subordination of others.

Toxic Masculinity: A cultural norm that encourages men to engage in harmful behaviors and attitudes, such as aggression and emotional repression, which can negatively impact both men and those around them.

Gender Roles:

Socially constructed roles that dictate the expected behaviors and attitudes of individuals based on their perceived gender, influencing how masculinity is expressed and understood.