Symbolism of the US battlefield cross: how boots, rifles, and helmets reinforce masculinity

Frontiers in Sociology

Sociology

Lauren Dundes¹ 

[1] null;

关键词: battlefield cross;    hypermasculinity;    militarized masculinity;    symbolism;    boots;    helmet;    rifle;    fallen soldiers;   

DOI  :  10.3389/fsoc.2023.1148204

 received in 2023-01-19, accepted in 2023-04-05,  发布年份 2023

来源: Frontiers

【 摘 要 】

This paper explores the unconscious symbolism of the battlefield cross memorial, which is comprised of combat boots and a rifle, often with dog tags attached, topped by a helmet. While the memorial's manifest function is to provide solace, build solidarity, and convey respect for patriotic sacrifice in response to grief, the battlefield cross also exalts masculinity at a subliminal level. Because of the latent ways in which the components of the battlefield cross reinforce fallen soldiers' masculinity, the memorial provides an outlet for bereavement according to a masculine script that treats virility as sacrosanct. The resonance of the battlefield cross and its synergism with unrecognized gender coding in broader society illustrate how a powerful symbol intended to honor members of the military also valorizes machismo. This qualitative interpretation could help explain impediments to women achieving parity with men in the military.

【 授权许可】

Unknown   
Copyright © 2023 Dundes.

【 图 表 】

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