Male, Masculine, Virility - Assignment Example

Visual Arts and Film Studies: Male, Masculine, Virility How better to depict a masculine virile concept than by the personification of a soldier. A righteous warrior is brave enough to put his life on the line for the security of the nation, his country. Not only noble, this mindset is exceptionally addictive and a matter of great pride. The concept dates back to oldest times when small clans waged upfront wars in the name of prestige and honor. The valor and determined mindset marks the addictive virility which is otherwise not so prevalent in men with physical imparities or disabilities.

(A virile Soldier Sketch)Physical strength and bodily health are the distinguishing characters in the personality of a perfect man and are often highlighted in men related to military or sports. The sense of independence and sacrifice makes him the focal point of pride and attention. Considering from a physical point of view, the perfect soldier has a well built frame, perfect height, a muscular figure and above all the perfect attitude. (Special Points of Indentification)Who does not notice a soldier?

He is the one fighting for the sovereignty of his country and wherever he is mentioned, shown or written about no one can deny the vitality of their purpose. The country’s defenses are vested upon its military. Usually countries engage each other in cold wars which are more political than physical but sometimes things get ugly and that is when military comes into action. This valor, bravery and prestige are the identification of a virile man. No imaginary depiction of superheroes can compete with a real life existing soldier ready to sacrifice his life in the name of his people.

The self- respect, honor and pride associated with this notion are a source of benefit for the entire nation. This not only gives the nation a sense of confidence and security but also something to get inspired from. (U.S Army. Afghanistan)Leprechauns, cow boys and vampires even James Bond cannot be as addictive in masculinity as an ordinary ranked soldier.As far as physical disabilities are concerned, society attributes such men to be weak and vulnerable, while for them this approach is a source of constant self-pity and dependence.

It destroys the remainder of their talents and points of encouragement; all this in the name of natural disabilities. “Paralytic disability constitutes emasculation of a more direct and total nature. For the male, the weakening and atrophy of the body threaten all the cultural values o masculinity: strength, activeness, speed, virility, stamina, and fortitude.”(Murphy 94)For men their bodies are the focal point of identification and attribution. In military special attention is given to physical health of soldiers along with stamina building.

So they form an absolutely perfect portion of the most dominant and proud part of the culture. (American Soldier)However with some efforts disable men can be made self-reliable as well. After all, personality and attitude are also important determining factors in masculinity. All this would require a different approach by the general public. The efforts in this regard might help in alleviating psychological depressions encountered by such men and help to make them a stronger part of the society.

( Gerschick & Miller. 136)ReferencesGerschick, Thomas J. Miller, Stephen Adam. Coming to Terms. Masculinity and Physical Disability. 1995. PrintMurphy, Robert F. The Body Silent. New York: W. W. Norton. 1990. Print