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“Men and Masculinities in Contemporary Japan” by James E. Roberson and Nobue Suzuki is a pioneering study that delves into the intricate realm of Japanese masculinity. The book transcends the conventional image of the Japanese ‘salaryman’ and explores the myriad identities and experiences of men in modern Japan.
This comprehensive narrative discusses the evolving roles of men and the construction of masculinity in Japan. The book encompasses a broad spectrum of subjects, one of which is the practices of transgender individuals within the male Japanese population, male grooming, female masculinity, fantasy spaces in the Takarazuka Theatre, national identity in popular songs, dynamics of masculinity in Filipina-Japanese marriages, and the equilibrium between fatherhood and work.
A key insight from the book is the Japanese concept of ‘ikigai’, or ‘reason for being’, and its connection to masculinity in contemporary Japan. The book investigates if ‘a real man’ can dedicate his life to his family, offering profound insights into the quest for masculine significance beyond professional life.
The book also explores marginalized and subversive forms of masculinity, such as those found among the working class and those living on the fringes of society. It highlights issues like domestic violence, men’s movements, HIV risk, the vulnerability of the male body, and the portrayal and experiences of homosexual males in Japan.
“Men and Masculinities in Contemporary Japan” is more than just a book about Japanese men. The book is a significant contribution to our understanding of modern Japanese society and identity. It challenges the prevailing masculine norms and provides rich ethnographic data on various types of men, making it an essential read for anyone interested in gender studies, cultural anthropology, or Japanese society.
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Books mentioned in the article: “Men and Masculinities in Contemporary Japan” by James E. Roberson and Nobue Suzuki
