of aggression from exposure , due to the frequent correlation between exaggerated expressions of masculinity and aggression ” ( Scharrer 615 ). However , textual elements of The Wire condemn macho masculinity , highlighting its regressive qualities and toxicity . In contrast , Omar occupies a counter-hegemonic model of masculinity , presented as a healthier alternative to the macho and gangsta models of masculinity commonly represented in popular police dramas . Thus , the ultimate aim of this critical studies essay is to normalize alternative and progressive forms of masculinity .
Theoretical Foundation and Methodology
The concept of hegemonic masculinity , pioneered by sociologist R . W . Connell , describes normative societal masculinity , and the subordination of other masculinities that do not meet these standards ( Connell and Messerschmidt 832 ). Commonly , such marginalized masculinities include alternative gender identities such as homosexuality ( Connell and Messerschmidt 837 ; Demetriou 341 ; Donaldson 648 ). Law professor Frank Rudy Cooper describes hegemonic masculinity as contemporary “ ideal [ s ] of manhood that … set the norm by which all men will tacitly agree to be judged ” ( 100 ). Because hegemonic masculinity “ is based on practice that permits men ’ s collective dominance over women to continue , it is not surprising that in some contexts , hegemonic masculinity actually does refer to men ’ s engaging in [ macho ] practices … that stabilize gender dominance in a particular setting ” ( Connell and Messerschmidt 840 ).
To contrast The Wire ’ s presentation of white hegemonic masculinity with its presentation of black hegemonic masculinity , both of which are commonly expressed in the series through macho practices such as physical aggression and violence , this critical studies essay employs rhetorical criticism for its method . Media scholars harness rhetorical criticism to identify and interpret the persuasive messages embedded within texts by their authors ( Jasinski 128 ). Rhetorical criticism was best suited for this project due to the methodological position of The Wire and other television series relating audience interpretation of thematic content . Additionally , this essay draws from multidimensional masculinity theory , intersectionality theory , and queer theory for its theoretical framework . All 60 episodes of The Wire were viewed for this case study , with specific episodes being coded for scenes and dialogue that link McNulty and Omar ’ s masculinity to their respective racial identities .
Akin to its peers on HBO and AMC , The Wire deconstructs masculine identity in American society . It is important to note that masculinity exists as a socially constructed ideal rather than a realized actuality , and for men in general this ideal is perpetually
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