Analysis Of Pamela Cooper-White's The Cry Of Tamar

In her book, “The Cry of Tamar: Violence against Women and the Church’s Response,” Pamela Cooper-White analyzes the patriarchal nature of men in our society to assert themselves over women, or those who are perceived as being “weak” or “indefensible,” in order to establish their power and dominance. Be it due to a need to feel superior, or out of innate fear of losing their masculinity, and thus being removed from their place of entitled authority. Pamela Cooper-White is calling the church, as well as the community, who may otherwise turn a blind eye to these despicable acts, to stand together in support of the victims, offering a safe haven where they may have otherwise felt they had no place of refuge. Part one, “The Framework of Violence against Women,” sets the blueprint for what drives individuals, particularly men, to act on their impulses of violence triggered by an underlying fear or loathing, especially those instances of sexual depravity. Sex is comparable to power, creating power over others and thus creating a sense of power within. Violence is introduced at an early age, found in children’s cartoons, television shows, and popular video games. Society has become numb to the objectification of women to the point that violence has become accepted, and the behaviors are not only justified by the oppressor, but also believed by

Although in most cases, men are urged to seek professional guidance and advice, and the church also bears a level of burden in the rehabilitation of these men, men are responsible for unlearning their predominant violent natures. This proves difficult in some cases because men are nurtured from a young age about what it means to be a real man. Difficult, yes, but not