Why did Americans reject the British gentleman as their dominant model of masculinity? Why is a boy's relationship to his mother a crucial factor in shaping his masculinity? What and how do boys learn about what it means to be a man? Holmberg demonstrates how David Mamet's plays provide insights into these questions, and into the masculine malaise. Through the gangsters, businessmen, soldiers, sailors, athletes, frontiersmen and thugs he created, Mamet celebrates and criticizes American macho. The book provides close readings of Mamet's well-known plays as well as plays which have not previously received the critical attention they deserve, and includes discussions of recent films and unpublished film scripts that shed light on Mamet's attitudes to American macho. Holmberg also presents detailed analysis of Mamet as director of his own plays, which gives fascinating insights into the playwright's intentions through his instructions to actors on how to play a part.
• Clearly demonstrates how David Mamet's plays can be illuminated by placing them in the context of gender studies • Alongside discussions of Mamet's well-known works, there are close readings of plays which have not received due critical attention, presenting a fresh and unique insight into the playwright's oeuvre • Investigates language as a major aspect of masculinity, using the insights of sociolinguists to present an approach to understanding Mamet's dialogue
Contents
Introduction; 1. Enter the cowboy; 2. Mamet and American macho; 3. Mothers and masculinity; 4. Act like a man: the boy culture; 5. Mamet's pants; Bibliography.
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