Masculine Identities: The History and Meanings of Manliness

(Hardback)

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This book provides an intriguing look at the long history of the changing definitions of what it means to "be a man," identifying both the continuity and disparity in these ideals and explaining the contemporary crisis of masculinity. In the classical Athens of Plato and Pericles, erotic relations between adolescents and adult menwhat we now revile as pedophiliawas the marker of manliness; a clear example of how concepts of masculinity shift. Even within modern western society, there are conflicting ideals for men; they are expected to be both aggressive and unemotional in business, and sensitive and caring as a father and lover. Masculine Identities: The History and Meanings of Manliness provides a comprehensive consideration of what "being a man" has meant over time. A fascinating read for men and women alike, it examines masculine identities that emerged in the past and continue into the present, such as the warrior, the democratic man, the craftsman, the self-made man of business, as well as ethnic forms of manliness. The work concludes by examining the contemporary issues of male sexuality, same-sex identity, and the conflicts within men in the modern world.

Reviews

Sussman (emer., English, Northeastern Univ.) provides a very clear, accessible introduction to the history of masculinity (even including a glossary) for newcomers to the subject. . . . Sussman reminds readers that multiple masculine identities exist in one person. Summing Up: Recommended. * Choice *

Author Bio

Herbert Sussman is professor emeritus of English at Northeastern University, Boston, MA; and an adjunct faculty member at The New School, New York, NY. His published works include Victorian Masculinities: Manhood and Masculine Poetics in Early Victorian Literature and Art.