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Examples Of Masculinity In Titus Andronicus

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Patriarchal roles given to men in the most important positions of Shakespeare’s time, the government and army, form masculine stereotypes which perpetuate accepted standards of masculine violence. In Titus Andronicus and Henry IV Part 1, Shakespeare elicits the expectation of men to establish masculine dominance by perform violent acts, whether achieved in savage or cunning ways, if driven by an accepted motive such as war, revenge, or the defense of one’s honor; in turn, this accepted violence constructs masculinity and patriarchy. The respect and reverence of war heroes in Titus Andronicus form standards of masculinity through violence. Shakespeare begins Titus Andronicus with Saturninus addressing crowd on how he deserves to be emperor …show more content…

Henry criticizes Hal harshly in efforts to maintain their family honor, calling Hal a “scourge” responsible “For the hot vengeance and the rod of heaven/ To punish my mistreadings” (3.2.8, 11-12). While referring to one’s son as a burden responsible for all misfortunes in one’s life seems particularly cruel, Henry’s manipulative speech stems from insecurities of usurping the throne, and like Titus, he feels disrespected by his son’s behavior. Henry usurped his Hotspur’s lineage, hence why Hotspur wishes to return the throne to his lineage and restore his family’s honor, seek revenge and establish masculine dominance by leading a rebellion against Henry. Henry hopes to leave England in good leadership, and to ensure he made the right decision in usurping the throne. Hal’s lack of ideal masculinity, specifically masculine violence, serves as one of the central causes for Henry’s concern and disappointment. Henry remarks in the first scene of the play how he wishes Hotspur, “a son who is the theme of Honour’s tongue,” were his son instead of Hal; clearly, exemplifying the value of honor and valor in men (1.1.80). Hal gains the approval of his father and the people of England in the end by defeating Hotspur in battle and becoming a war hero; consequently, his embrace of ideal masculine violence transforms him into a hero and leader. Societal pressures to defend family honor and glorify violence guide Henry and Hal’s relationship in Henry IV Part 1 and shape

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