The Dynamics of Culture and Gender: Reflections in English Literature

Abstract

The study of gender is multi-dimensional; as it crosses the bounds of history, anthropology, sociology, psychology and organisational development. Gender is known to be socially constructed and is learned through social interactions and influences of people around us. Culture definitely plays a major role in the determination of gender. In order to determine gender identity and gender representation, we need to distinguish between ‘gender’ and ‘sex’. Gender derived from the Latin word ‘genus’ meaning kind or race refers to the psycho-social aspects that are constructed by culture, whereas sex derived from the Latin word ‘sexus’ refers to biological aspects of masculinity/femininity. It is relevant that while discussing gender stereotypes one must consider both these terms. From the moment a child is born he or she is assailed with messages of what it means to be a ‘boy’ or a ‘girl’. Masculinity for male and femininity for female are embedded in their gender (socially constructed) and not in their sex (biological). However, the ‘culture’ as determinant factor varies in respect of female or male behaviour. S for instance, women in Saudi Arabian culture are not allowed to drive cars, whereas women in the US enjoy the freedom to drive cars. So gender is looked differently across different cultures and through different time periods. A few literary texts have been examined to reflect a deeper understanding of gender and culture.