Masculinity through Time, Space, and Literature

From the Colonial Period to the 1960s and even now, cultural and social norms shape the Western standards for masculine expression. Social standards for masculinity impact not only men, but every gender identity, sexual orientation, and their portrayals in literature. This section follows these shifts in society’s image of masculinity through time and space, while sharing a glimpse into how historical documentations have influenced people’s perceptions of gender.