Toxic Masculinity in the Ancient World

This book offers the first study of toxic masculinity in the context of ancient Greece and Rome, covering a broad range of sources and connecting the ancient and modern world to understand both. It provides a model for using anachronistic theoretical frameworks to understand the past and contributes to the field of masculinity studies by bringing together work on gender in ancient Greece, Rome, and contemporary Western societies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 350 pages
Publication date: 31 December 2023
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

The first comprehensive study of toxic masculinity in the context of ancient Greece and Rome delves into both Greek and Roman societies, drawing from a diverse range of sources such as curse tablets, history, philosophy, drama, poetry, and medical texts. By connecting the ancient and modern world, this book aims to enhance our understanding of both cultures while addressing contemporary issues and events like violence against women and online hate groups. It offers a unique approach by employing anachronistic theoretical frameworks to interpret the past, contributing to the field of masculinity studies by bringing together work on gender in ancient Greece, Rome, and contemporary Western societies.

Toxic masculinity, as defined in this book, is a performance of masculinity that is harmful to individuals, communities, or oneself. It encompasses a range of behaviors and attitudes that perpetuate gender inequality and harm. Within Greek and Roman conceptions of gender, this book highlights tensions and contradictions, tracing some of the origins of modern gender roles. It also explores how texts and events from the ancient world are invoked in the construction of toxic masculinity in the contemporary world.

The book covers a wide range of sources, including Athenian oratory and drama, Roman poetry and history, curse tablets, early Christian writing, Italian cinema, US politics, and more. By bringing together these diverse materials, the book offers a comprehensive examination of toxic masculinity in the ancient Mediterranean world. It explores how different cultural expressions and historical events have shaped perceptions of masculinity and contributed to the perpetuation of harmful norms.

One of the key themes of the book is the ways in which toxic masculinity is perpetuated through language and discourse. It examines how certain words and phrases are used to demean and marginalize women, as well as to reinforce traditional gender roles. The book also highlights the ways in which toxic masculinity is reinforced by societal norms and expectations, such as the notion that men should be strong, stoic, and dominant.

Another important aspect of the book is its exploration of the ways in which toxic masculinity can cause harm to individuals and society. It examines the impact of toxic masculinity on mental health, relationships, and social institutions. For example, the book discusses how men who adhere to traditional gender roles may be more likely to engage in violence against women, as well as how toxic masculinity can contribute to the perpetuation of gender inequality and discrimination.

In conclusion, this book offers a valuable contribution to the field of masculinity studies by providing a comprehensive and interdisciplinary analysis of toxic masculinity in the context of ancient Greece and Rome. By connecting the ancient and modern world, it sheds light on the enduring tensions and contradictions surrounding gender roles and offers insights into the ways in which these issues continue to shape our contemporary world.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399520539