Hegemonic Masculinity

Definition

Hegemonic masculinity refers to the cultural ideal of male behavior that promotes the dominance of men over women and other gender identities. It encompasses traits like aggression, emotional restraint, and authority, shaping societal expectations around what it means to be a 'real man' and often marginalizing those who do not conform to these ideals.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hegemonic masculinity is often portrayed in early television through male characters who embody strength, control, and independence while relegating female characters to supportive roles.
2. The concept also highlights how race and class intersect with masculinity, as dominant ideals can differ significantly across cultures and socioeconomic groups.
3. Over time, sitcoms have evolved to challenge traditional male stereotypes by depicting more emotionally vulnerable or nuanced male characters.
4. In comedy, humor can serve as a tool to subvert hegemonic masculinity by mocking traditional masculine traits and allowing for the exploration of gender fluidity.
5. Critiques of postfeminist narratives often reveal how they can reinforce hegemonic masculinity by framing women's empowerment in relation to traditional male success rather than dismantling gender hierarchies.

Review Questions

• How does hegemonic masculinity manifest in early television portrayals of male characters, and what roles do female characters typically occupy in these narratives?
  • In early television, hegemonic masculinity is often exemplified by male characters who are assertive, strong, and unemotional. These portrayals reinforce societal norms that prioritize male dominance and authority. Female characters frequently take on subordinate roles that support or complement these dominant males, such as nurturing figures or sidekicks, which limits their agency and reinforces traditional gender stereotypes.
• Discuss how humor can be utilized in television to challenge hegemonic masculinity and contribute to the evolution of gender representation.
  • Humor serves as a powerful tool in television for subverting hegemonic masculinity by presenting exaggerated versions of traditional masculine traits that can be laughed at rather than idolized. Comedic scenarios often allow for moments where male characters express vulnerability or fail to meet societal expectations of toughness. This portrayal encourages audiences to question rigid definitions of masculinity while promoting a more diverse understanding of male identity.
• Evaluate the impact of hegemonic masculinity on contemporary competition-based reality shows and their portrayal of gender dynamics.
  • In competition-based reality shows, hegemonic masculinity heavily influences how male contestants are presented and interact with others. Male participants are often depicted as aggressive competitors who seek dominance over their peers. This not only reinforces traditional notions of masculinity but also impacts female contestants by positioning them in roles that may be defined by their relationships with men or their ability to navigate a male-dominated space. As a result, these shows often perpetuate stereotypes about gender dynamics and power relations in society.

Related terms

Toxic Masculinity: A cultural concept that describes harmful behaviors and attitudes traditionally associated with masculinity, such as emotional suppression, aggression, and the devaluation of women.

Gender Norms: Societal rules that dictate the expected behaviors, roles, and responsibilities of individuals based on their gender, often enforcing traditional ideas of masculinity and femininity.

Intersectionality: A framework for understanding how various social identities, including race, class, gender, and sexuality, intersect and create overlapping systems of discrimination or disadvantage.