Exploring Heteronormativity and the Illusion of the ‘Real Man’: A Case Study of Sivuyile (Siv) Ngesi
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Authors
Maake, Tshepo
Smuts, Letitia
Issue Date
2024-07-01
Type
Article
Language
en
Keywords
Masculinity , Heteronormativity , Heterosexuality , "Real man" , South Africa
Alternative Title
Abstract
In this paper, we aim to explore public reactions to non-normative expressions of masculinity within South African society. We argue that although society has become more accepting of such expressions, there still exists public criticism and heteronormative labelling of sexuality and gender. The case study of a local entertainment celebrity, Sivuyile Ngesi, is used to interrogate the illusion of the “real man” and the construction of heteronormative masculinities in the South African context. Ngesi’s personal portrayal of his masculine identity is unconventional and provides an example of an atypical expression of a Black African heterosexual identity. In the paper we draw on a range of local media sources, as well as an in-depth interview with Ngesi himself, to discuss an idiosyncratic vision of an alternative Black African masculine identity and the realities and implications around it.
Description
Citation
Maake, TB and Smuts, L. 2024. ‘Exploring Heteronormativity and the Illusion of the ‘Real Man’: A Case Study of Sivuyile (Siv) Ngesi’. South African Review of Sociology, 54(2): 200-214. https://doi.org/10.1080/21528586.2024.2362875
Publisher
Taylor & Francis
License
Journal
Volume
Issue
PubMed ID
DOI
ISSN
Print ISSN: 2152-8586
Online ISSN: 2072-1978
Online ISSN: 2072-1978