One School Grade—Two Masculine Cultures

Abstract

Ruth Michalek examines third grade students’ notions of masculinities through the use of group discussions. With the help of numerous quotations, she draws a varied and empathetic image of the boys involved in the discussions. She proves in great detail that two very different perceptions of cultures of masculinities can co-exist in one school grade. The group “Rock’n’Roll Inc.” orients itself on traditional images of masculinity, while the group “Tiger Claw” finds these masculine patterns of orientation useless. Michalek’s work presents a vivid contribution to the differentiation of the conceptions of masculinities.