Questioning Masculinity in Willa Cather's A Lost Lady

Abstract

Will Cather's A Lost Lady questions the traditional notion of masculinity juxtaposing the decline of masculine and rise of feminine power. Cather has expertly presented the weakness of male characters and success of female. All the male characters can not affirm the traditional notion of masculine gender roles. Such as Captain Daniel Forrester is economically poor and physically handicapped suffering from fractured leg and economically bankruptcy. There is crisis in his masculinity due to his physical and economic weakness. Niel suffers emotionally when he is in love with Marian Forrester. His emotional nature questions the traditional notion of masculinity. Frank Ellinger, another male character is opportunist who loves Nell Emerland, Mrs. Forrester and marries Constance Ogden. Marian Forrester, the major female character, fights for freedom and identity. She represents the female masculinity possessing masculine characteristics: strength, determination, boldness and courage. These evidences assist us to prove the traditional notion of masculinity which is in questioned.