Butler, Gender, and Wilson, Masculinity Flashcards
What is the distinction between “sex” and “gender”?
Sex refers to the biological differences between males and females, such as reproductive organs and chromosomes. Gender, on the other hand, is a social construct that encompasses the roles, behaviors, and identities society attributes to individuals based on their perceived sex.
How would you characterize Butler’s ethical stance? What groups of persons, ideas, or principles does she see herself as advocating for?
Judith Butler’s ethical stance emphasizes the importance of gender freedom and challenges traditional gender norms. She advocates for the rights of individuals to define and express their own gender identity without facing discrimination or societal constraints.
How does Butler think (following Gayle Rubin) that the family reproduces sociopolitical norms concerning gender? Can you think of other social-political venues that also reproduce gender norms?
According to Butler, following Gayle Rubin, the family reproduces sociopolitical norms concerning gender by enforcing specific roles, attitudes, and behaviors associated with being male or female. Other social-political venues that also reproduce gender norms include educational institutions, media, workplaces, and religious organizations.
In what ways does Butler think that gender is a “performance” or is “performative”? What does “performative” mean?
Butler believes that gender is a “performance” or “performative” because it is enacted through repeated actions and behaviors rather than being an inherent trait. The term “performative” means that gender identity is created and sustained through these repeated performances, rather than being a fixed or inherent quality.
How was “masculinity” defined in Greco-Roman contexts?
In Greco-Roman contexts, “masculinity” was defined by qualities such as physical strength, dominance, self-control, and social status. These attributes were considered essential for demonstrating proper masculinity.
How does masculinity relate to sociopolitical hierarchy?
Masculinity was closely related to sociopolitical hierarchy, as higher social status and power were often associated with the performance of masculine qualities. High-status males maintained their position and influence through displays of masculinity.
In what ways were high-status males in constant danger of “slipping down” in the sociopolitical hierarchy, and what performative steps did they take to try to prevent that slippage?
High-status males were constantly at risk of losing their status due to failures in behavior or performance. To prevent this slippage, they engaged in various performative steps such as showcasing virtue, participating in military endeavors, and excelling in public oratory to reaffirm their high status.
What “biological” view, known as the “one sex model,” of males and females prevailed in the Greco-Roman period?
During the Greco-Roman period, the “one sex model” was prevalent, which posited that males and females were essentially the same, with females considered a less developed form of males in terms of biological and social attributes.
How do slaves, conquered peoples (“barbarians”), and people with disabilities fit into the gendered hierarchy?
Slaves, conquered peoples (“barbarians”), and individuals with disabilities were often positioned lower in the gendered hierarchy. Their status was viewed as inferior, reinforcing the dominance and superiority of higher-status males within the societal structure.
What views of males and females do we find in early Judaism and Christianity?
Early Judaism generally upheld traditional gender roles but included varying perspectives on masculinity. Early Christianity often challenged these traditional gender norms by emphasizing spiritual equality over social status, thereby offering a different view on the roles and identities of males and females.
In what multiple ways did “manly” men exercise power and control?
“Manly” men in Greco-Roman society exercised power and control through various means, including political leadership, military command, oratory skills, and social influence, all of which were crucial for asserting their dominance and maintaining their status.
How does control of the self figure into Greco-Roman constructions of masculinity?
In Greco-Roman constructions of masculinity, control of the self was a central element. Maintaining self-control was seen as essential for preserving dignity, authority, and social status, and was considered a key indicator of true masculinity.
How was circumcision viewed in Greco-Roman contexts?
In Greco-Roman contexts, circumcision was often viewed with suspicion or as a mark of foreign or lesser status, contrasting with the Greco-Roman ideals of masculinity that emphasized physical attributes and cultural norms.
