Challenging Hegemonic Masculinity: Media, Resistance, and the Evolving Portrait of Manhood

The term "Hegemony" refers to a particular ideology or school of thought that rules a community or society. Instead of only being enforced, this dominant perspective is created and influenced by societal norms, stemming through education and culture. Hegemonic ideas have the power to become so entrenched that people stop questioning them and start to accept them as conventional. On the other hand, counter-hegemony is the resistance to these dominant ideologies. It originates from marginalized groups that present alternative thoughts that defy the status quo being perpetuated by those with power. In essence, it means promoting alternative ideas, points of view, and ways of living that contradict what is largely accepted in the world today. Counter-hegemony is the act of resisting and subverting the dominant hegemonic authority. These counter-hegemonic movements strive to achieve a more fair allocation of power within society by empowering those who are underprivileged. Masculinity is a social construct that is often significantly impacted by these hegemonic forces. It can be defined as a combination of traits, actions, and duties that are associated with the expectations of men and boys. Hegemonic masculinity has historically been characterized by traits such as stoicism, strength, and aggression. Men who don't conform to this ideal are frequently viewed as weak or feminine, and they risk social rejection and punishment due to these expectations enforced by dominant groups.

Numerous commercials in today's media uphold the stereotype of the tough, independent man. Imagine men in mainstream cologne advertisements, some can be seen scaling mountains or riding motorcycles to uphold the ideal image of what a man should be. On the other hand, counter-hegemonic advertising is starting to appear, with men portrayed in stereotypically feminine activities like raising a family or cooking. Hollywood has long fostered clichéd ideas of what it means to be a man. Action heroes that use violence to solve issues, like the Rock or Sylvester Stalone, represent the "tough guy" stereotype. This reduces the expression of emotions and glorifies aggression in young men due to the influence of hegemonic ideologies.

A range of media, including commercials, movies, TV show episodes, and social media posts, can represent how masculinity is portrayed in the media. I'll use my favorite tv series "Yellowstone" as an example. The Western drama" centers on the Dutton family, who run the biggest cattle ranch in the country. In addition to offering certain counter-hegemonic elements, the cast includes dominant male characters that are frequently in line with conventional ideas of masculinity. The male characters are shown as emotionally and physically tough, especially Kevin Costner's character John Dutton, the main patriarch of the family. Frequently, the characters of Yellowstone are seen participating in male centered activities, like horseback riding, cattle ranching, and constant fighting in bars. That idea that men should be rugged and uncompromising is further supported by this portrayal of characters. Male authority in the family and in their relationships with others is consistently emphasized in the show. The main masculine figure who leads with power, John Dutton, has considerable influence over both his land and the people immediately surrounding it. Reluctance to be vulnerable or to freely express feelings is a common trait among the characters represented in the show. Masculinity in today’s society promotes the image of men being expected to maintain their composure and stoicism no matter what happens, and part of that requires emotional suppression. Sometimes the show explores the inner challenges of its male characters, even though it mostly focuses on traditional masculinity perpetuated by hegemony .

For instance, Kayce Dutton, the youngest son of John, struggles with the intricacies of his connection with his father and PTSD stemming from his military service in the navy. These instances throw light on the vulnerabilities that men frequently experience but are typically reluctant to admit. "Yellowstone" portrays masculinity in a way that incorporates both hegemonic and counter-hegemonic characteristics. Strength, domination, and emotional suppression are the show's hallmarks of traditional masculinity, but it also has moments that subvert these expectations by emphasizing emotional vulnerability, sensitivity, and non-traditional gender roles. We can better understand how mainstream media both upholds and subverts cultural ideals of masculinity by looking at these portrayals in this popular television series.

However, there are opposing viewpoints presented in movies like "Moonlight" and "The Perks of Being a Wallflower". In a way that goes against conventional ideas of masculinity, they show guys juggling emotions, mental health, and vulnerability. Social media apps also provide a forum for hegemonic masculinity to be both reinforced and challenged. One side of the spectrum exhibits trends featuring men posting "gym selfies” on instagram to demonstrate their strength. However, social media is now a powerful tool in the hands of anti-hegemonic movements. Apps such as twitter and instagram offer a place for men's rights advocacy that supports emotional wellness, vulnerability, and a healthy masculinity. Furthermore, the limitations of traditional masculinity are brought to light by hashtag movements such as #ToxicMasculinity and #MenSupportingMen. The concept of masculinity is not static. As societies evolve, so do the expectations placed upon men. The rise of feminism and movements like LGBTQ+ activism have challenged the traditional definition of masculinity enforced by dominant groups. Men are increasingly encouraged to express themselves in ways that go beyond the rigid confines of hegemonic masculinity. However, the struggle for a more inclusive masculinity is ongoing. While social media apps can spread positive movements, they also perpetuate toxic masculinity, with online communities reinforcing harmful stereotypes. Additionally, traditional institutions like schools and workplaces often continue to uphold outdated expectations of male behavior.

Moving beyond the limitations of hegemonic portrayals, let's consider a counter-hegemonic example, the television series "Schitt's Creek." The show centers on the formerly wealthy Rose family who are forced to rebuild their lives in a small, economically depressed town. The main character, Johnny Rose, defies traditional notions of masculinity. He is flamboyant, enjoys fashion, and frequently expresses his emotions. Despite lacking conventional toughness, Johnny proves to be resourceful, supportive, and a loving father. "Schitt's Creek" offers a counter-narrative in several ways. Johnny's success is not tied to physical prowess or aggression. His emotional openness challenges the stoic stereotype of the traditional father. He cries freely, shares his vulnerabilities, and fosters a strong emotional connection with his family. Finally, his flamboyant fashion sense dismantles the association of masculinity with rigid gender presentation.

The significance of "Schitt's Creek" lies in its normalization of masculinity that departs from the hegemonic norm. Johnny demonstrates that men can be successful, caring, and emotionally expressive without adhering to a narrow definition of manhood. This challenges the rigid hierarchy within masculinity, making space for a broader spectrum of male identities. However, it's important to acknowledge the show's limitations. 'Schitt's Creek'' primarily focuses on a white, middle-aged character. Masculinity is further complicated by race, class, and sexual orientation. For instance, the experience of a gay man will differ significantly from Johnny's. Shows like "Pose" that explore the lives of LGBTQ+ characters of color offer additional counter-narratives, but more representation in media must be achieved. In conclusion, hegemonic masculinity dictates a narrow and oppressive view of manhood. Media representations often reinforce this, while overlooking the complexities of intersectionality. Counter-hegemonic examples like "Schitt's Creek'' pave the way for a more inclusive understanding of masculinity. By showcasing diverse expressions of male identity, we can move towards a society where men are free to define their masculinity on their own terms, free from the constraints of dominant ideologies. While hegemonic masculinity remains pervasive in media and society, counter-hegemonic movements and representations are chipping away at its rigid definition. By critically consuming media and celebrating diverse portrayals of manhood, we can move towards a future where masculinity is a spectrum, not a cage. This will empower men to embrace their vulnerabilities, defy stereotypes, and forge their own unique paths.