Political masculinity and public iconography: An analysis of the autobiographies of Mandela and Obama

Humphrey Lubang'a Kisala; Lencer Achieng Ndede; Chrispinus Wasike

doi:10.51867/ajernet.6.4.76

Authors

Humphrey Lubang'a Kisala
kisala19785@gmail.com
Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, Kenya
Lencer Achieng Ndede Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, Kenya https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7032-0160
Chrispinus Wasike Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, Kenya https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2119-672X

Keywords:

Autobiography, Iconography, Performativity, Political Masculinities, Public Construction

Abstract

This paper examines the world of political masculinities as constructed by autobiographical narratives. It focuses on Barack Obama’s Dreams from My Father and Nelson Mandela’s Long Walk to Freedom. It also explores the experiences of these two leaders to see how they narrate their life tales, shaping public perceptions and creating iconic identities. This exploration is crucial within their distinct socio-political backgrounds. The aim is to unravel how cultural, social, and political influences have influenced how these leaders define their masculinities from young boys into grown men. The study is guided by Michel Foucault’s theory of power and discourse and Judith Butler’s theory of gender performativity to dig into the narrative techniques that either push back against or reinforce the hegemonic expectations surrounding Black political masculinity. The results show some tensions between self-representation and what society expects of them, and this gives an insight into how personal stories can be a strategic way to identity formation and political image-making. Furthermore, these narratives function as strategic tools for identity formation and political image-making.

Dimensions

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