Hegemonic masculinity

Definition

Hegemonic masculinity refers to the dominant form of masculinity that is culturally exalted in a given society, characterized by traits such as authority, control, and the rejection of femininity. This concept highlights how certain ideals of manhood become the standard against which all men are measured, often marginalizing other expressions of masculinity and femininity. It shapes social norms and expectations, influencing behaviors and attitudes in various contexts, including folklore and visual culture.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hegemonic masculinity is not a fixed trait but rather a dynamic set of practices that can change over time and vary across cultures.
2. It often promotes the idea that men should be strong, competitive, and unemotional, leading to harmful stereotypes about both men and women.
3. This concept plays a significant role in the perpetuation of gender inequalities within societies by reinforcing traditional power structures.
4. Folklore and visual culture often reflect and reproduce these ideals, showcasing narratives that celebrate hegemonic masculinity while sidelining other masculinities.
5. Resistance to hegemonic masculinity can take various forms, such as the promotion of alternative masculinities that embrace emotional expression or egalitarian values.

Review Questions

• How does hegemonic masculinity influence social expectations for men in contemporary society?
  • Hegemonic masculinity establishes a standard that encourages men to embody traits like strength, dominance, and emotional stoicism. This creates social pressure for men to conform to these ideals, often leading them to reject vulnerability or emotional expression. As a result, many men feel compelled to act in ways that align with these societal norms, which can impact their relationships with others and contribute to ongoing gender inequalities.
• Discuss the relationship between hegemonic masculinity and gender roles as depicted in folklore and visual culture.
  • Folklore and visual culture often reinforce hegemonic masculinity by portraying male characters who exemplify dominant traits while relegating alternative masculinities or feminine qualities to less favorable positions. These narratives serve to normalize specific behaviors and attitudes associated with masculinity, thereby shaping public perceptions of gender roles. By analyzing these representations, one can uncover how they perpetuate stereotypes and contribute to the broader cultural understanding of what it means to be a man.
• Evaluate the implications of hegemonic masculinity on intersections of gender, race, and class within visual culture.
  • Hegemonic masculinity does not exist in isolation; it interacts with various social identities such as race and class. This interplay can exacerbate inequalities where marginalized groups face additional barriers to conforming to dominant masculine ideals. For instance, representations in visual culture may glorify white, middle-class male figures while sidelining men of color or those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. This dynamic highlights how hegemonic masculinity shapes not just individual identities but also societal structures and cultural narratives.

Related terms

Patriarchy: A social system in which men hold primary power, dominating roles in political leadership, moral authority, and control over property.

Gender Roles: Socially constructed roles and expectations associated with being male or female, which dictate behaviors, responsibilities, and opportunities.

Intersectionality: A framework that examines how various forms of social stratification, such as race, gender, and class, overlap and interact to shape individual experiences and identities.