Masculinity and Emotional VulnerabilityIn Henry Mackenzie’s The Man of Feeling

Abstract

Traditional masculinity in literature has always been a reflection of a social convention, of the necessity of manly behavior to be exerted by men, this classical view, and though it was the overwhelming case since the dawn of any written history, began to experience a radical shift during the eighteenth century in Europe, and particularly in England.

Multiple factors worked hand-in-hand to present the said shift, for instance, philosophical movements that worked on blurring the lines of gender roles when it comes to compassion and sympathy. Broader movements of the age emerged also, emphasizing on the role of emotions in a practical manner, and calling for it to be the main catalyst for human behavior and moral compass, unlike what rational movements, like the Enlightenment, established, as reason being the main motivator for actions and morality.

Literature, as an inseparable part of philosophy, and a direct application of it, went through this shift as well, as authors of the age began reflecting the moldable approach for masculinity, infusing it with unconventional traits that were traditionally attributed to femininity. A significant novelist, who made a huge impact, and presented a critical boost to this new change is the Scottish writer, Henry Mackenzie. Through his works and, most significantly The Man of Feeling, he depicted characters in a way that was considered a literary shock to the readers.

This paper explores the context through which the concept of masculinity has evolved, and reflects on Henry Mackenzie’s The Man of Feeling, showing instances that support this new masculine convention that opposes the socially classical, traditional approach.