The Big Sleep Masculinity Paragraph

Question 1

1st Masculinity Example

Answer 1

Hyperbole is implemented when Marlowe talks to Carmen at the Sternwood’s house, “I’m not very tall. Next time I’ll come on stilts wear a white tie and carry a tennis racket.” This remark allows Marlowe to display his self depreciating humour, used as a tool to counter any characteristics seen as below societal standards and expectations of masculinity in the 1940s such as his height.

Question 2

2nd Masculinity Example

Answer 2

Continued characterization of Marlowe as strong, intelligent and brave throughout the film portrays him as the epitome of masculinity, including his sexual remarks and subtle degradation of females, where he is conveyed as superior.

Question 3

3rd Masculinity Example

Answer 3

Demeaning epithets when addressing females are included throughout the play by Marlowe like ‘sugar’ and ‘angel.’ These terms have negative implications about females being controlled by males as if they are inferior.

Question 4

4th Masculinity Example

Answer 4

A metaphor, paired with sexual innuendo is utilized as Marlowe has an encounter with the book clerk, “Well I collect blondes and bottles too.” From a modern standpoint, in an era of gender equality and feminism Marlowe’s comment is seen as an unapologetic objectification of women which was acceptable in a 1940s societal context as females were seen as sexual objects.

Question 5

5th Masculinity Example

Answer 5

Marlowe’s dismissive tone after having a sexual encounter with the bookkeeper demonstrates the casual and insignificant nature of the event, conveying the way women were used as sexual beings and then disregarded, saying “So long pal.”