Lord Of The Flies - Role Of Gender Essay -- essays research papers

What was it that ca utilize the aggression and dominance exhibited by the boys of Lord of the Flies? Was it some metaphysical, spiritual force, or mayhap their genetic makeup? Could it stir been the influence of their peers or families, or was it the media that inspired this dangerous pattern? Conceivably, their gender had something to do with this appalling trait. It all begs the question, would the corresponding experiences have occurred had female persons been stranded on the island instead of males? Had females been in a similar situation as the boys in Lord of the Flies, they would have fared abundantly better. Initially, this paper will apportion societys role in encouraging males violent behavior, as well as females politeness and passivity. Secondly, it will be discussed how family socialization influences females gentle natures and males aggressive temperaments. Finally, this research will explore both genders leadership styles, and scientific perception behind these di fferences. Much of what society dictates can affect childrens perceptions of the ideal gender standards, and can lead to abuse and violence. Media has a huge role in perpetuating these dangerous gender stereotypes. Numerous male images are used in advertising and television, representing themes such as "heroic masculinity" and "might is right". These portrayals of violent behavior associated with masculinity target young men and convince them that in order to live up to societys standards, they must resort to aggressive and dominant behavior, the use of assertion, and physical violence. Males are saturated with images of praise aggression through movies such as Lethal Weapon, sports programs, and "macho" celebrities, like Bruce Willis and Arnold Shwartzenager. Female stereotypes span the opposite extreme. Innumerable young women perceive "ladylike" expectations to be neatness, passivity, politeness, and struggle to meet them, hence they appear nurtu ring and feminine. Women in the media who challenge these stereotypical behaviors and display assertiveness tend to be slotted into the role of "tomboy" or " dyke". These impositions contribute to the breeding of young men who act in an abusive manner, and are terribly restricting towards boys who covet deep emotion. The antagonist of Lord of the Flies, hole Merridew, perceives himself to... ...evere emotions, so not do it for dominance, but for reasons such as love, children, or family. Carol Shakeshaft, a writer specializing in gender differences in educational administration, describes the female mentality as "emphasizing power with, rather than power over, others." She theorizes that women, in general, perform better in leadership positions, because they are more person oriented, and comply a more democratic leadership style. To settle arguments, women rely more on negotiation than competition or physical violence. Had females been on the island, they would have execute more community involvement, equality, and inclusiveness. In conclusion, this report has explored several rationales behind the boys behavior in Lord of the Flies, and suggested how girls in the same position would have behaved in a more accepting, nurturing, polite manner. Media stereotypes on ideal gender conduct, family socialization, and fundamental differences in leadership approach are all factors that contribute to boys and girls very contrasted behaviors. Clearly, had females been in the same situation as the boys in Lord of the Flies, they would have fared considerably better.