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Robert Hogg, "Masculinity and History" This paper argues that the study of masculinity, indeed gender generally, is important for the progress of historical studies, from an emphasis on the political and economic, to the social and the cultural. Historian John Hirst has said that "gender…will not be an important factor in explaining variety and change in the past." While this view has been dominant in historical writing, it has been challenged by feminist historians such as Marilyn Lake and Joy Doumasi. This paper argues that including masculinity in historical analysis will lead to a better understanding of social systems as a whole, and can provide new perspectives on old questions. Acknowledging the gendered nature of men's activities will illuminate all areas of men's lives, and emphasise the contingency of gender determination. By masculinising history it may be shown that men's values are not strictly individualistic but connected to the welfare of men as a class. Biography: Robert Hogg is a PhD candidate in the History Department of UQ. His thesis concerns British masculinity in frontier societies and its (their?) effect on race relations, particularly conflict with indigenous peoples. Prior to commencing his PhD Robert completed an MA (Coursework) in Australian Studies, and worked in the Australian Public Service for a very long time. |
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