Much of this essay consists of negative descriptions of what it means to Paul Theroux to be masculine or a man. Why does he offer such strong images and assertions?
Chapter 8 - 2. Being a Man - Questions: Much of this essay consists of negative descriptions of what it means to Paul Theroux to be masculine or a man. Why does he offer such strong images and assertions?
Do you agree or disagree with Theroux when he writes, “It is very hard to imagine any concept of manliness that does not belittle women, and it begins very early” (para. 5)? Explain.
Chapter 8 - 2. Being a Man - Questions: Do you agree or disagree with Theroux when he writes, “It is very hard to imagine any concept of manliness that does not belittle women, and it begins very early” (para. 5)? Explain.
How does Theroux prepare his readers for the turn the essay takes in paragraph 12 when he says, “There would be no point in saying any of this if it were not generally accepted that to be a man is somehow—even now in feminist-influenced America—a privilege”? What does this statement reveal about Theroux’s overall purpose in this piece?
Chapter 8 - 2. Being a Man - Questions: How does Theroux prepare his readers for the turn the essay takes in paragraph 12 when he says, “There would be no point in saying any of this if it were not generally accepted that to be a man is somehow—even now in feminist-influenced America—a privilege”? What does this statement reveal about Theroux’s overall purpose in this piece?
Theroux’s essay was written in 1983. Which of his points are outdated? Which ones do you think remain true today?
Chapter 8 - 2. Being a Man - Questions: Theroux’s essay was written in 1983. Which of his points are outdated? Which ones do you think remain true today?