In contrast to feminist theory or women’s studies, masculinity studies is a relatively new approach to analysing literature. This article discusses the state of literary masculinity studies and its relationship to sociological men’s studies and feminism. It highlights the intention of masculinity studies scholarship to expose the damaging impact of patriarchy on men (as well as women), and its aim to celebrate alternative masculinities over hegemonic ideals through an analysis of male protagonists. It also notes the criticisms brought against the theoretical approach: that men are already adequately represented in literary theory; that the approach can be either universalist or too fragmented by sub‐categorisations of masculinity according to class, race, sexuality, etc. Giving an overview of the scholarship in the field, the article notes that while sexuality and ethnicity are becoming more frequent subjects for critics, issues of age – both youth and senescence – are relatively ignored, and suggests that this theme requires further examination in literary masculinity studies and in men’s studies more widely.
This article considers the negotiation of masculinity that takes place within a family context, juxtaposing Raewyn Connell's concept of hegemonic masculinity with one that is more aligned with the collective. Taking Philip Roth's 2003 novel The Plot Against America, the article uses the character of Herman Roth as a case study. Despite Roth's reputation as a fundamentally masculine writer, and one who has not always represented the family as a positive force on individual masculine identity, this novel portrays a father who is responsive to circumstance and whose masculinity evolves according to his family's needs.
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