Abstract
In this article, I discuss how masculinity is constructed in Old Icelandic Egils saga and Njáls saga through various kinds of unmanliness (impotence, lack of facial hair, baldness, effeminacy, cowardice, old age). Both sagas demonstrate the restrictiveness of gender roles in medieval Iceland and how men become their captives. The ideal of masculinity is so exaggerated that it becomes oppressive, because everything may be used against men. It leads to failed marriages and feuds. However, Egils saga’s and Njáls saga’s treatment of gender is critical.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.