The Masculinity Pattern in the Poetry of Mihyar al-Daylami

Abstract

    This study aims to define the concept of the masculinity pattern and trace its historical development up to the modern era, focusing on its connection to the poetry of Mihyar al-Daylami. The masculinity pattern is clearly reflected in his poetry, particularly in the genre of boasting, where the poetic self elevates itself above others and exalts its own status in an attempt to marginalize them. This occurs as a response to provocation by others, which prompts the poetic self to defend itself.

   The masculinity pattern also appears in another form when the poet, having previously looked down upon others, finds himself in need of them materially. In such cases, the masculine pride concedes its core trait—self-exaltation—and sacrifices its dignity in pursuit of financial gain. Over time, as circumstances changed, this once-proud masculinity suffered wounds and defeatism, particularly due to past attitudes the poet held toward others, whom he had once belittled and looked down upon.

As a result of all this, the masculine figure ends up marginalized and broken.