Masculinity in the most rudimentary sense came to be known as having qualities or appearance traditionally associated with men, especially strength and leadership. It is a generalist approach that oversimplifies by stereotyping and superimposing what an ideal man is supposed to act, behave and be like. Over time this approach has been narrowed out as a repressive description of aggression, violence, and dominance. Supremacy of masculinity is endorsed by patriarchy as masculinity not only defines the relationship between men and women but also between men too. It has been juxta positioned as being anti-feminine, which is usually associated with nurturance and emotional expression. Though this definition of femininity has turned hypocritical over time by cultivating the idea of an ideal woman through the lens of patriarchy. This hyper-feminine woman is often assumed to be demure, emotionally irrational, and dependent on the men in her life. By examining the harmful effects of toxic masculinity and redefining what it means to be a man, we can promote healthier relationships and social structures. This paper explores how our understanding of masculinity and femininity has changed over the years and aims to present a picture of what it means to have a healthy masculine or feminine self in the future.
