Men are portrayed as independent and serious, and are defined and described by activities and accomplishments." How does the English language that is spoken in the US accomplish this?
In addition to your text materials, this site may help you.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Man
See also: http://www.jiskha.com/display.cgi?id=1277437883
The English language spoken in the US can contribute to the portrayal of men as independent and serious, primarily through the use of certain linguistic features and cultural norms. Here are a few ways in which this may be accomplished:
1. Gendered Language: English, like many other languages, has gendered pronouns. Using the pronouns "he" and "him" by default when referring to an unspecified or hypothetical person tends to reinforce the image of men as the default gender. This can subtly reinforce the notion of men being more independent and serious than women.
2. Occupational Terminology: Certain occupations and professions in English are traditionally associated with masculinity and are more likely to be portrayed as serious and independent. Terms like "policeman," "fireman," or "businessman" implicitly support the notion of men being defined by their activities and accomplishments. Although efforts have been made to adopt gender-neutral terms like "police officer," "firefighter," and "businessperson," traditional gender associations can still influence language use.
3. Power Language: The English language often employs language structures that convey power, authority, and dominance, which are frequently associated with masculinity. For instance, using active voice, asserting rather than asking, and giving commands can emphasize independence and seriousness in communication.
4. Cultural Expectations: While the English language itself does not explicitly dictate how men are portrayed, cultural norms and expectations play a significant role. In American society, there has historically been an emphasis on individualism and achievement, which can contribute to the portrayal of men as independent and serious. Language reflects and reinforces these cultural values.
It is important to note that language is a complex system influenced by various factors, including history, culture, and individual preferences. The portrayal of men as independent and serious can be a result of societal norms, including language use, which evolves over time and can vary across different regions and communities.