Men and Masculinities in South Africa, Volume 2. Understanding masculinity in South Africa, essays and perspectives – 2013, PACSA and Sonke Gender Justice Network.

Abstract

The essays examine masculinity through various lenses, including historical legacies of colonialism and apartheid, contemporary issues like gender-based violence and economic inequality, and intersecting factors such as race, class, and sexual orientation. A key strength of the volume is its combination of academic perspectives and grassroots voices, grounding the theoretical discussions in real-world experiences.
The collection delves into how societal expectations shape men’s identities and behaviors, addressing topics like fatherhood, male vulnerability, and the pressures of hypermasculinity. While it critiques the persistence of patriarchal norms, it also highlights positive examples of men and boys engaging in practices that promote gender equality and social justice.