Hegemonic Masculinities in South Africa: Transformation or Transition in SNiTCH

• In Event: Voice, Hegemony and Gendered Identities

Abstract

This paper examines masculinities in South Africa through an analysis of a locally produced police drama, SNiTCH. Located within a gendered institution, the series follows an undercover squad as they attempt to apprehend a crime syndicate. I argue that while contesting gender strategies are performed, these tactics reinforce white hegemonic masculinities so that gender identities do not proliferate but instead merely adapt to the demands of the changing politico-economic environment of the “new” South Africa.

Author

• Shelley-Jean Bradfield, Indiana University