Problem: Myers explains that boys learn to recognize hegemonic masculinity early because it becomes the cultural "standard" that other boys are measured against, even when most boys cannot actually achieve it (Myers 2012:204). In the reading, hegemonic masculinity is tied to strength, athleticism, risk-taking, and heterosexual success, and it is maintained through constant policing of boys who seem "too feminine" or emotionally open (Myers 2012:204). The TV shows Myers analyzes (Hannah Montana, Suite Life on Deck, Wizards of Waverly Place, and iCarly) seem progressive at first because most male characters are non-hegemonic: sensitive, unathletic, soft-spoken, or romantically unsuccessful. But Myers argues that these "alternative" masculinities are usually framed as jokes, meaning the shows still teach kids what a "real man" is by mocking what he is not. Boys also learn hegemonic masculinity through what Myers calls "mask-ulinity," where non-hegemonic boys temporarily "put on" hegemonic dominance to regain status, especially over girls (Myers 2012:211). Even when the programs include drag or homoerotic moments, those scenes are usually played for comedy or punishment rather than real acceptance. As Myers concludes, "hegemonic masculinity remained the standard" (Myers 2012:212). Overall, the shows offer a variety of masculinities, but they still reinforce a hierarchy where hegemonic masculinity is the most rewarded and socially powerful form. Need Assignment Help?
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