Question I

Both “Killing Us Softly” and “Tough Guise” are great portrayals of the problems of our society involving patriarchy. In the film “Tough Guise” it is clear that men are the aggressor over women. It is also clear through the film that we live in a predominately male lead society. Men hold power and control over women through every day activities, as well as generally speaking which adds to our patriarchal society. It is still custom that women take their husband’s last name, and often are referred to “Mrs. James Smith”. This implies that the women is just the man’s secretary figure and does not have her own identity. This idea that women should just be housewives and dedicate their lives solely to cleaning, cooking, pleasing their husband and childrearing needs to be done away with. Our society is on to this- they market techniques towards patriarchy. Makeup and cosmetic brands market to young girls that feel they need a man to fulfill their needs, and in order to get that man, they need to be attractive right? Gyms, bowflex machines and colognes are marketed to men to be as muscular, attractive and great smelling to attract women and to be in shape to protect the woman that they love.

The film also exemplifies that men must be macho, have large muscles, be very masculine and be in control. If not, they may be referred to as pussies or pansies. It is not accepted in our culture to be anything less. This just seems to be getting worse as well. As shown in the film, GI Joe action figures have grown largely in size down to the biceps over the years- which shows masculinity according to the Tough Guise definition. What is so shameful of being in tune with your emotions and being sensitive to other’s needs? Why is this seen as so detrimental in our society today? I don’t see why people have such a difficult time accepting others different than themselves.

Adam Lambert from American Idol I think is a different expression of gender in today’s world. He is openly gay and has been seen on several occasions wearing makeup. He is also Jewish. Adam being a part of two minorities I think is a great example of someone who is different and a more complex representation of gender than the usual pop star. Being a superstar, coming out with your personal information and sexual preference is difficult, and I give him a lot of credit for fighting on behalf of people who are homosexual.