Men as victims? Courtroom Performances of Masculinities and Victimhood

• In Event: Addressing Gender and Sexual Victimization

Abstract

Drawing on observations in Swedish district courts, this presentation explores how masculinities and victimhood are performed on the courtroom stage, contradicting and underscoring assigned roles of plaintiff or defendant. The three themes analysed highlight how men both seek and avoid victimhood in court. These theses are: heroic rescuers, capable victims, and fearful men. The analysis show how masculinities and victimhood are performed in fluid and interlocking ways in court.

Author

• Anita Heber, Stockholm University, Dept of Criminology