A Truckdriver Named Shiloh Have you ever felt that men always screw things up? Perhaps it is not men themselves that cause destruction; maybe it is merely the result of the presence of a masculine character. The role of masculinity is an essential aspect in both Bobbie Ann Mason's short story entitled, Shiloh, and in Tennessee Williams' play, A Streetcar Named Desire, although it functions very differently in each story. In Shiloh, we see the detrimental effects that the male role has even in its absence through the interactions that Leroy has with his with wife, Norma Jean. Contrasting this particular perspective, in A Streetcar Named Desire the destructive manner of the male role is unmistakably present, as it negatively affects Stanley and Stella's relationship. In these two works, we see the masculine role epitomized by one man, and abandoned by another, which, in both situations, leads to the destruction of their marriages. Through the examination of the two stories it becomes ironically clear how terrible and yet desirable the male role is to conquer, and what different effects it has on the central characters involved.To begin, an understanding of what the masculine role is must first be acquired. The masculine role serves many functions, and most of them are relatively clear-cut and commonsensical. The male role, for our purposes, is the presence of an authoritative individual that takes charge in precarious situations, makes money, and serves as a provider for a family. Characteristics of the masculine character would include a degree of barbarism, accompanied by great physical strength and a relentless drive to accomplish goals. The character filling the male role must be mentally aware, even if not in a witty sense, and capable of being moderately sensible. All of these characteristics are established and made apparent in different characters throughout both of the stories in discussion. The masculine role serve...
