Glorification of Masculinity in Sir Arthur Conan Doyle Lost World

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Glorification of Masculinity in The Lost World

The male ego and the fulfillment of a man's own image of himself can be strong motivating forces behind his actions and behaviors. Society has created parameters used to define a "real" man; failing to live up to these specifications threatens one's masculinity and standing amongst one's peers. These expectations and requirements for manhood are constantly reinforced by society. The prevailing stereotype of the classic "Marlboro Man" along with movie heroes such as James Bond, Indiana Jones, and John Wayne give the impression of the adventurous ladies' man who laughs in the face of danger and can do no wrong. Arthur Conan Doyle's tale of adventure, The Lost World, is an excellent example of the search for manhood and glorification of masculinity. What begins as a scientific expedition turns into a journey to satisfy the suppressed male instincts and desires for conquest. With the search for knowledge as an appropriate excuse, the explorers of Maple-White land are free to indulge in the arts of "real" men and live up to their idealized conceptions of their own greatness.

From the very beginning of The Lost World, it is easy to see where the storyline is heading. Edward Malone is preparing to propose to his precious Gladys but is abruptly denied and told he is not quite man enough at this time to meet the ideals of his idolized beauty. Gladys explains that she wants a man of action, a man who "makes his own chances" (4). The whole reason for Malone's participation in the activities to come is to prove himself to Gladys through a sort of courtly love process to win her approval and hand in marriage.

To prove himself, Malone aids the famed Lord John Roxton...

... middle of paper ...

... a method of escape, but instead chose to explore and exploit the reaches of the jungle abyss. They came away with fame and recognition, even wealth--everything they were after and more. The whole purpose of the expedition was for Professor Challenger to save face and prove his story to be true; the three others were along for the ride but were soon caught up in the action as well. Science took the back seat to Lord Roxton and his adventurous spirit. With courage and bravery the men proved themselves to each other and experienced true "male bonding" in its purest form. They brought back evidence of this zoological and scientific breakthrough, but more importantly, it seems, they bolstered their egos and self-assurances of their own worth and capability.

Work Cited

Doyle, Arthur Conan. The Lost World. 1912. Chicago: Academy Chicago Publishers, 1990.

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