Masculinities and Manhood in Contemporary Irish Drama: Acting the Man

This book explores how masculinities and manhood have evolved in Irish drama and society from the 1960s to the present, highlighting a seismic shift from post-colonial nationalism to neoliberal capitalism-driven models of masculinity. It examines a diverse range of drama and theatre events, including mainstream and fringe productions, and argues that Irish manhood has transitioned from embodying national identity to performing regressive forms of globalized masculinity.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 292 pages
Publication date: 11 December 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This book explores the profound journey of masculinities and manhood in Irish drama,spanning from the 1960s to the present. Through a comprehensive examination of a diverse range of drama and theatre events, both mainstream and fringe, it critically elaborates on a seismic shift in Irish masculinities. This transformative shift is argued to have moved Irish manhood from embodying and enacting post-colonial concerns of nationalism and national identity to performing models of masculinity that are driven and shaped by the political and cultural practices of neoliberal capitalism.

The book is organized into several chapters, each exploring different aspects of this shift. Chapters on performing masculinity in plays set in both the Irish Republic and Northern Ireland provide a rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives. These chapters highlight how men in Ireland have navigated the complex interplay of national identity, gender roles, and social change over the years.

In addition to these chapters on masculinity, the book also delves into the realm of Women's and Queer drama. These chapters shed light on the ways in which gender, sexuality, and identity are intertwined in Irish drama and contribute to the broader conversation about gender equality and social justice.

Throughout the book, the authors draw on a wide range of theoretical frameworks and critical approaches to analyze the changing landscape of masculinities and manhood in Irish drama. They explore the impact of globalization, consumer culture, and political ideologies on men's identities and relationships, and how these factors have shaped the performative practices of masculinity.

The book offers a thought-provoking and timely exploration of the complex and evolving nature of masculinities and manhood in Irish drama and society. It provides valuable insights into the ways in which men negotiate their identities in a rapidly changing world, and how these identities are shaped by broader cultural and social forces.

In conclusion, Masculinities and Manhood in Contemporary Irish Drama is a groundbreaking work that offers a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the changing landscape of masculinities and manhood in Irish drama and society. It is a must-read for scholars, students, and anyone interested in gender, culture, and society.

Weight: 400g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030840778
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021