This first essay is an interview of a man you know who is at least ten years older than you; preferably a parent, step parent,
grandparent, or uncle. You may interview another family member or a friend, but it should be someone at least ten years older
than you are. The purpose of this essay assignment is for you to get a real world look at the impact of gender role expectations on
men’s lives, by having you discuss the subject with a man you know personally. Use the assigned readings from the text (pages
112135)
for background and context, and conduct the interview on the following questions:
1. What is your definition of a “masculine” or “manly” man in American society? Should men try to be seen by their family and
friends as masculine? Why or why not? (
hint please
note: many men will say that a man’s man is “strong” or “tough” in some
way. If this happens in your interview, ask him to elaborate; in what way should a man be “strong?” Physically? Emotionally or
mentally? What does he mean by that?)
2. What kinds of careers, or lifestyle choices contribute to what makes a man masculine or not?
3. Did you have to learn how to fit in with other boys? Who taught you? How did you learn what was expected of you?
4. Have your ideas on being masculine changed? How?
5. Were these ideas different for your parents or any older people you know? What career or life expectations did they have for
men and boys?
Conclude your essay with a brief discussion of your reaction to the answers you got. What is your opinion of your interviewee’s
ideas? Do you agree or disagree, and why?
Important Instructions:
Include a brief description of who the person is in the introduction of your interview. You should create the essay out of the
person’s answers do
not simply record the interview in a Question and Answer style.
You must be careful to PROOFREAD as well as spell check. Spell check will not pick up the difference between words like *should
of* and *should have,* *woman* and *women*, or *lose* and *loose*. These typos are the worst. ;)