This course asks a simple question:  what makes a real man?

As the readings, lectures and tutorials will illustrate, the answer to this question is far from simple, since ideals of masculinity have varied markedly over time, as well as within different historical contexts.  By focusing each week on two historical figures, who lived in roughly the same period, students will see how individuals have exemplified, tested, expanded and violated masculine ideals.  Attention will also focus on the shifting amalgam of authorities and practices that has attempted to shape manliness.  The course as a whole will explore how and why notions of what it means to 'be a man' have shifted over time and place.

The course materials will include theoretical and historical readings on gender, as well as fact-based and fictional texts, including written publications, painting, photography, monuments, music and film.  The assignments will evaluate students' capacity to assess this material critically, and to apply it to analyse how and why 'real' manliness has been asserted, resisted and transformed over the past two centuries of Western history.

Response essay: 20%;  Analytical essay plan: 10%;  Analytical essay: 50%;  tutorial attendance: 10%;  participation: 10%

Two first-year courses to the value of 12 units in History or Gender, Sexuality and Culture, or with permission of the Coordinator.

Reading Brick

This course may be counted towards a Gender, Sexuality and Culture or History major.