Independent Scholar
Tacoma, WA 98406
USA
Out of the Basement, into the Background: Xander's Masculinity and Marginalization
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In the critical literature on Buffy the Vampire Slayer, one core Scooby has been noticeably underrepresented. Xander Harris is worthy of study not only because of his actions in various narratives (he was first to meet Buffy and to be aware of her slayer role; he was essential in averting apocalypses in seasons 1 and 6), but because he is the sole continuing representation of conventional masculinity in a series often discussed for its portrayal (and subversion) of gender roles. Drawing from various authors (including Vint, Early, Spicer, Money, and Battis), this essay examines Xander's unique position among Buffy's eroticized vampires, sexually-exempt watchers, and caricatured, hyper-masculine human males, and also compares Xander's development with that of Willow. Men's studies research, such as Plecks' Myth of Masculinity, confirms that Xander's struggles and insecurities about athletic skill, career/financial success, and heterosexuality constitute quintessential issues in redefining masculine identity in a post-feminist world. Over the course of the series, as Xander's confidence and competence in a traditional masculine identity grow, his centrality within the story seems to decrease. Several possible readings of this evolution suggest different implications; each reading proves a closer look at the construction of Xander gives new perspectives on Buffy's gender roles and identity. |