That notions of femininity were seriously disrupted during the First World War has become obvious in recent years. But what happened to masculinity at the same time? Based on letters, diaries and oral histories, "Dismembering the Male" explores the impact of the 'war to end all wars' on the male body. Joanna Bourke argues convincingly that military experiences led to a greater sharing of gender identities between men of different classes and ages. She concludes that attempts to construct a new type of masculinity failed as the threat of another war, and with it the sacrifice of a new generation of men, intensified.

Joanna Bourke, winner of the 1998 Fraenkel Prize in History, also wrote "Working Class Cultures in Britain, 1890-1960".

About the Author
Joanna Bourke is Professor in the School of History, Classics and Archaeology at Birkbeck, University of London

Reviews
Bourke evokes a real tenderness and understanding for the men who were pushed to breaking point and beyond ... in a book well illustrated with contemporary photographs and sketches from men's letters and diaries ... a fine work Times Higher Education Supplement cogent insights into wartime experience Independent on Sunday stunning The Observer



Book Information
ISBN 9781861890351
Author Joanne Bourke
Format Paperback
Page Count 336
Imprint Reaktion Books
Publisher Reaktion Books