This is one of the reasons why I enjoy some anime and manga. It twists around the traditional concepts of gender, feminine looking men, to me, are an example of this. I have a soft spot for ‘girly’ men, because I know that just because they appear feminine that doesn’t make them weak. Some of the most badass men have been bishonen. For instance, some may possess martial art skills or be extremely athletic.
I also think showing feminine looking men is an interesting contrast to Japan’s society, where strict gender roles are enforced and masculinity is more valued. Of course, it is fanservice, there’s a trend in Japan right now where feminine looking men are viewed as being more attractive. But I also feel there is another element to this. Perhaps it is a way to counter the dominant ideas of masculinity and femininity. However there are issues with this. Particularly in the West, when people first see anime, manga, or some Japanese bands, I know they’re going to be shocked and maybe even a little disturbed by their femininity. Then, the assumption about their sexual orientation comes up. Feminine men aren’t often seen as being gay, when in fact many of them have been heterosexual. By why is this first assumption some people make? That a feminine man=homosexual?
I think this is based on stereotypes about homosexuals, that since they are feminine they must be gay. But I also noticed that some of these feminine looking men are sometimes despised. And a lot of times it’s not because of their character, it’s because of the fact that they’re feminine.
You can also find this video games as well, the Final Fantasy series is a great example. Kuja, probably one of the most underrated villains from the series is quite feminine in his outward demeanor. Yet at the same time he is described as being cruel and narcissistic.
So this is something I’ve been thinking about. Being feminist that I am always wondering about gender, masculinity/femininity, and sexual orientation. I can’t help it.
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