Gender, Masculinity, And Masculinity - 2484 Words

This paper is devoted to the research of masculinity, in particular, to the way men lead conversations, putting major focus on gossiping. For a long time they suggested that gossiping refers exceptionally to females, but the research proves that men gossips much more frequently than women, taking a great pleasure from this process. Masculine Gossips Introduction Conversations have always played a role of indicator of masculinity and femininity, especially when they talk about gossiping. Indeed, for a long period of time they were deeply convinced that gossips have no relevance with masculinity and with the image of a real man, claiming that gossips are associated exceptionally with women and their style of leading conversations. However,†¦show more content†¦The term masculinity is also called manliness or manhood, which refers to the qualities that are traditionally associated with men, according to the US and Oxford Dictionaries. Also, the term comprises both social and biological features, by which it is meant that masculinity can be defined according to some body features and social conduct, which includes tendencies in speech and conversations. Traditionally, manliness referred to toughness, courage, and independence, as well as to many other characteristics. In American culture, since the times of confederation, men were assoc iated with business, which actually affected a vision of male conversations. Therefore, it was unacceptable for men to talk for the sake of talk, but to turn this process into the way of earning money. Margaret Mitchell reveals in her novel â€Å"Gone with the Wind† an image of strong and wise American men, who lead conversations about politicians and economical life of the country, making their predictions of the future. These characters were submerged in business talks, while women had to chat about all things whatever they wished. According to the author, women should have not chat about business, make some complicated calculations, and express their personal opinion about political life of the country. Such stereotypes concerning masculine and feminine conversations were not accidental, as in that period social roles of both sexes were clearly