From what we talked about in class today, from what I've read, and from what I've experienced, I can't say that I completely agree with the theory of Hemegonic Masculinity. There really is just one simple reason for this. When you talk about the people in the movies, the Marlboro Man, etc., these people are not realistic. Everyone knows they aren't realistic and that no man can truly be like those men. The thing is there is a huge number of people out there that are obviously trying to be like these men. Whether it's working out, learning to shoot a gun or whatever, a lot of men will most likely try to emulate these men. But I don't think it has anything to do with feminism, or the want to be ultra masculine. Why does the conclusion we jump to be that men want to be in charge and masculine and "Alpha" all the time?
Why can't these just be heroes that, while we know it is impossible to achieve their status, these men emulating are simply trying to improve themselves. Now improve themselves based on what? Ok, yea I concede here and sure maybe it is society. But I mean it still comes down to a personal choice that, if you really take a look at American Society and realize the amount of obese people, I'd have to say the personal choice is way stronger than the societal "norms." If the movies and society was such a huge influence on the way masculinity was perceived, I'd have to say that we would be looking at a different America, and most certainly a more fit America.
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