Being a real man: What does that mean today? What qualities are attributed to him? We asked four men about it.
For a long time the men of creation were called the strong sex. Today, in the 21. In the twenty-first century, we know that they are not. Especially in times of crisis, as recently caused by Corona, it becomes clear: women keep the world going. Whether in system-relevant professions or in care work at home.
Typical male characteristicsà la Old White Man, on the other hand, bring society quite little. And just to be attractive, men have never wanted that. Being a real man, so what does that still mean?
Being a man: 4 guys talk about their masculinity
How do men deal with change in life? We asked four people what masculinity means to them – and what not.
„Being a man means being a man.“
Florian, 34, musician& Sound designer at Euroteuro:
How would you define masculinity for yourself?
I don’t really see the point for me in defining a construct of masculinity. Rather that of humanity.
Do you find yourself masculine enough?
I don’t know what I’m supposed to be manly enough for now. This is not a claim for me. It is rather tainted with something negative. We can abolish the patriarchy for all I care.
What masculinity should have more of?
Restraint.
Do challenges like the current Corona crisis change the way you look at life??
The situation just shows for me how fragile systems can be. There’s something reassuring and disturbing about that at the same time. I try not to get caught up in too much self-optimization and crisis stress.
„Being a man? Should women also be allowed.“
Christian, 37, Photographer:
What does masculinity mean to you?
Must define it for me? I get along quite well without definition. Assigning various characteristics to one gender won’t get us very far in 2020. I think everything feminine should also be allowed to be masculine, and that clearly then works the other way round too.
You’ve recently become a father, has that changed your views on masculinity and being a man?
In the delivery room there is a difference. We men do not have to have the child. Our hand may be crushed, but of course we can’t take the most important part of it. No masculinity can help.
How do you personally deal with changes and challenges in your life??
I try to let the circumstances affect me in portions. This leads at least outwardly to a stoic composure, which may then probably also seem masculine.
„Being a man, but with brains!“
Shinya, 47, Fashion Director& Store Owner of RelaxGardenVienna:
How would you define masculinity for yourself?
I think it’s important to be mentally strong to be friendly. I understand this now that I am the father of two children. Especially in times like these it is very important to help others and to be there for others.
What should masculinity be more of?
Less muscle, more brain.
How do you deal with changes and challenges in life, especially in the current situation?
The coronavirus puts me in a situation where I have to think very differently about our lifestyle. I try to make the best of it by organizing a kindergarten for my kids at home and taking care of the household. My wife is a doctor and at the moment she is more needed and on call than ever before.
„Being a man is a feeling in the body.“
Jonas, 37 years old, guitarist:
How would you define masculinity for yourself?
I know not exactly what it is, masculinity. If I have to choose a gender to belong to, then it is probably "man". It is a feeling in the body, apart from having a penis. A sense of belonging in a general sense.
What should masculinity have more of?
Masculinity should generally allow more femininity. And of course vice versa. So if you feel there are clear boundaries, you might just let more of the other through, of what you consider to belong to the opposite sex.
How do you personally deal with change and the current Corona crisis?
I follow the changes and adapt, a bit like a fish in water, even if it’s a bit uncomfortable. Expect things to change.
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