American Masculinities

Course Description

This course explores the social construction of masculinity in the U.S. from colonial times to the present, employing historical and sociological perspectives.  It addresses questions such as: Why are men and women seemingly so different?  How have ideas about masculinity changed over time?  How is masculinity affected by class, race and sexuality?  What would a democratic model of masculinity look like?  Texts include Benjamin Franklin’s Autobiography, Edgar Rice Burroughs’ Tarzan of the Apes, Maxim magazine, and several recent films.  Students complete independent projects on topics such as violence, childrearing, sexuality, and sports.