Catholicism and Machismo: The Impact of Religion on Hispanic Gender Identity

Abstract

Masculinity is strictly a cultural concept. Each society interprets and applies arbitrary gender definitions differently. This study will make a distinction between cultural masculinity and biological maleness. Gender disparity, he will argue, is deeply rooted in the Judeo-Christian tradition and remains the basis for feminine and masculine gender stereotypes in Spanish speaking Latin America. Mary, as virgin and mother, represents the sole role model for Hispanic women, while the male identity will be traced to Adam, Joseph and Catholic priesthood with the church as ultimate wedded partner. In addition, the Spanish conquest influenced male gender identity in Latin America. The small physique of the indigenous peoples of Latin America, combined with the loss of land to the Spaniards questioned the social identity of the male. In order to compensate for their military inferiority and physical weakness, indigenous males developed an elaborate system of masculine behaviors, in short machismo. Simultaneously, the acceptance of Catholic doctrines replaced the natural biology of men and women. This study will analyze the social impact of Hispanic gender identity as interaction between Spanish conquest and Catholic doctrine.