Imperial Adjustments: Performing Russian Masculinity in the Context of the Russia-Ukraine War

• In Event: Masculinity and Russia's War in Ukraine

Abstract

This paper explores the ongoing significance of imperialism in the construction of Russian masculinities. It is based on a longitudinal sociological study and shows that participants’ performances of masculinity have shifted along with their perceptions of Russia’s global standing. The paper explores how the interviewees negotiate the perceived loss of Russia’s positive identity and stigma associated with global condemnation of Russian aggression against Ukraine; how they engage with the Russian state propaganda and rethink their views on Russia’s imperial past and present.

Author

• Marina Yusupova, Edinburgh Napier U (UK)