Final answer:
It is true that NOMAS, MVP, and mythopoetics all see aspects of the current construction of masculinity as harmful, advocating for a more genuine and less harmful notion of what it means to be a man. Over time, masculinity has been tightly bound up with not showing weakness and dominating over feminine traits. Although there has been some progress, there is still a need to challenge traditional masculine norms.
Step-by-step explanation:
The assertion that NOMAS, MVP, and mythopoetics all agree that the current construction of masculinity can be harmful is true. Each of these movements or concepts highlights various aspects of masculinity that can be damaging both to individuals and society. NOMAS, the National Organization for Men Against Sexism, specifically addresses how traditional masculinity promotes gender inequality and violence. The Mentors in Violence Prevention (MVP) program works to encourage men and boys to challenge and overcome traditional stereotypes that equate masculinity with dominance and aggression. Meanwhile, mythopoetics is a men's movement that seeks to redefine masculinity by exploring and embracing a broader emotional repertoire and more genuine male identities which often diverge from traditional norms.
Historically, the construction of masculinity has been predicated on opposition to femininity and has carried with it certain expectations and restrictions. In the nineteenth century, manliness was associated with paternal duty, financial provision for one's family, and dominance over effeminate traits. This concept has evolved, with varying societal expectations for men with respect to emotion, strength, and sexual behavior. For example, displays of emotion that were once seen as weaknesses in men are increasingly being accepted. However, this transformation is ongoing, and many men continue to grapple with the societal pressures that demand they adhere to traditional masculine norms.
The question of whether or not it is fair to retroactively label ancient Roman masculinity as 'toxic' depends on one's perspective. Some might argue that by today's standards, many aspects of ancient Roman masculinity could be considered toxic. Nonetheless, societal acceptance of men publicly displaying emotion has progressed, but there is still work to be done to completely dismantle harmful stereotypes associated with masculinity.