Masculinity/ Femininity
Definition:
Understanding how people see themselves as men or women is critical in studying gender. This
perception is influenced by what society expects from each gender, known as gender roles. At the same
time, biological sex is about the physical differences between being male or female based on
reproductive organs (Dixson, 2016).
The link between these concepts becomes clear when we consider that societal expectations shape what
we associate with masculinity and femininity. For example, masculinity is often connected to ambition,
wealth pursuit, and sticking to traditional gender roles. On the other hand, femininity is tied to qualities
like caring, nurturing, supporting gender equality, being environmentally aware, and being open to
different gender roles (Aries, 1976).
This understanding is reflected in Brazilian society, which has a balanced approach. In Brazil, both
masculine and feminine qualities are valued. Striving for excellence, competition, and success showcases
masculine traits while emphasizing a good quality of life, happiness, teamwork, harmony, and empathy,
highlighting feminine attributes. Together, these values paint a picture of how gender identity and
societal roles are perceived in Brazil (United Language Group, n.d.).
Numerical Index for Brazil:
A score of 49 for Brazil on the Masculinity/Femininity dimension indicates that the country has a
relatively balanced approach to societal values. It suggests a mix of both masculine and feminine traits in
the culture. In such a society, there may be a recognition of the importance of competition,
achievement, and success (masculine values), as well as caring for others and quality of life (feminine
values).
People in Brazil may find significance in both individual success and the community's well-being. This
intermediate score implies a cultural blend where people might appreciate personal achievements but
not to the exclusion of empathy, cooperation, and a focus on the overall quality of life (Esportare in
Brasile, n.d.).
Myth:
Boi-Bumbá/Bumba-meu-boi: The protagonist of a famous dance and party in the North and Northeast
regions, telling about the death and resurection of an ox, and a immaterial cultural patrimony to
UNESCO. In the traditional plot, once upon a time there was a farm worker called Catirina who got
pregnant and asked to her husband, Francisco, for an ox tongue to eat, to which he complies, killing one
of the oxen of the herd. That ox, however, happened to be the farmer's favorite, who asked to his
employees to find it. They arrested Francisco, but a wich doctor or shaman manages to resurrect the ox,
a miracle to which everyone celebrates. The party is full of people in colorful costumes playing out the
happening, and thus, the festival can be said to combine music, dance, parade and theater. There are
many variations of the play across the country, with different characters and characteristics (TV Tropes,
n.d.).
The Boi-Bumbá/Bumba-meu-boi festival, recognized by UNESCO as a cultural heritage in Brazil's North
and Northeast regions, weaves a narrative that intricately blends both masculine and feminine elements.
The story revolves around Catirina, a pregnant farm worker, whose request for an ox tongue introduces a
feminine aspect linked to nurturing and maternity. Conversely, her husband, Francisco, assumes a
masculine role by fulfilling this request, even at the expense of sacrificing the farmer's favorite ox,
symbolizing strength and vitality. The tale finds a harmonious resolution through the intervention of a
witch doctor or shaman, featuring a magical revival that balances both masculine sacrifice and feminine
life-affirming qualities. Moreover, the festival itself, marked by music, dance, parade, and theater,
transforms into a shared celebration that goes beyond individual gender roles. The vibrant costumes and
diverse characters create an inclusive atmosphere, emphasizing a holistic approach that respects the
interconnectedness of masculine and feminine energies within Brazil's cultural fabric.
Reference:
Dixson, Barnaby. (2016). Masculinity and Femininity.
https://link.springer.com/referenceworkentry/10.1007/978-3-319-16999-6_3389-1
Localization Strategy Guide: Cultural Dimensions of Brazil. (2022, July 22). United Language Group.
https://www.unitedlanguagegroup.com/blog/localization-strategy-guidebrazil#:~:text=Brazil%20wants%20to%20exhibit%20masculine,%2C%20harmony%2C%20and%20empath
y).
Femininity/Masculinity | Encyclopedia.com. (n.d.). https://www.encyclopedia.com/socialsciences/encyclopedias-almanacs-transcripts-and-maps/femininitymasculinity
Esportare in Brasile. (n.d.). Cultural Dimensions in Brazil. Esportare in Brasile.
https://www.esportareinbrasile.it/en/dimensioni-culturalebrasiliana#:~:text=The%20fundamental%20issue%20here%20is,intermediate%20score%20on%20this%2
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Esportare in Brasile. (n.d.). Cultural Dimensions in Brazil. Esportare in Brasile.
https://www.esportareinbrasile.it/en/dimensioni-culturalebrasiliana#:~:text=The%20fundamental%20issue%20here%20is,intermediate%20score%20on%20this%2
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