Research Catalog

Title

Wrestling and hypermasculinity / Patrice A. Oppliger.

Author

Oppliger, Patrice A.

Publication

Jefferson, N.C. : McFarland, c2004.

Items in the Library & Off-site

Holdings

Details

Description

xiv, 197 p.; 23 cm.

Summary

• "Professional wrestling revels in its exaggeration of masculinity: the physical appearance of wrestlers, the violent and sexually-charged moves in and out of the ring, the role assigned to women, and the use of weapons such as chains, barbed wire and steel folding chairs. This study reveals the links between watching televised matches and increases in verbal aggression, rebellion, and a tendency toward violence and retaliation."
• "The book begins with a brief history of professional wrestling and a summary of the criticisms of the sport. It discusses how gender issues play a part in the effects of wrestling on its viewers, arguing that wrestling goes beyond the image of physical violence to models of interpersonal behavior. The expansion of wrestling into storylines outside the ring involves problems with class, race, and homophobia and nationality for which violence is presented as a solution. The attractiveness of wrestling and its ability to lure fans back year after year is fully explored."--Jacket.

Subject

• Wrestling > Social aspects > United States
• Wrestlers > United States > Sexual behavior
• Popular culture > United States
• Wrestlers > Sexual behavior > United States

Bibliography (note)

• Includes bibliographical references (p. 185-194) and index.

Processing Action (note)

• committed to retain

Contents

Introduction -- Background of professional wrestling -- Effects -- Masculinity and aggression -- Violence in the squared circle -- Sex -- Personae and appearances of male wrestlers -- Portrayal of women -- The appeal of professional wrestling -- Conclusions.

ISBN

0786416920

LCCN

^^2003025328

OCLC

• 54064264
• SCSB-11851489

Owning Institutions

Harvard Library