This research and thesis is a response to a particular usage of the Wild Man concept, an archetype with a long history in western and many other societies. In recent times, writers of the mythopoetic/therapeutic wing of the Men's Movement have advanced gender politicised notions of the Wild Man, assigning a role for him as a key to many of the problems men face. This new role intrigued me but their depiction of the Wild Man irritated because I too had a strong belief in him but felt he was being misrepresented. The objective of this thesis is to arrive at my own considered view of the Wild Man through assessment of the relevant data. The primary focus is on recent Men's Movement writing, both those championing the wild Man such as Bly, Keen and Biddulph, and their critics, who deny his existence. Feminist views are also an important area of investigation. The scope of investigation must include historical perspective of the Wild Man and evidence from the physical sciences, anthropology, zoology, psychology, philosophy, literature and sociology. I also examine the connections with my own field, visual arts linked with the Wild Man. During the conduct of the research, the author experimented with some of the methods for 'contacting the Wild Man' such as meditation and bushwalking. The written research was part of a cycle of investigation including the production of drawings and sculptures/installation, with each area nourishing and stimulating others. My assessment discusses and makes suggestions for: the Wild Man as a way for men to refashion themselves; men's 'contact' with the Wild Man; what the Wild Man has to offer; an exploration of the nature of the Wild Man; and his relevance to art. Further work is required in bringing men of differing views together to discuss and research means for positive change in men. / Master of Arts (Hons)
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:ADTP/235317 |
| Date | January 1997 |
| Creators | Waugh, James, University of Western Sydney, Faculty of Performance, Fine Arts and Design |
| Source Sets | Australiasian Digital Theses Program |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Source | THESIS_FPFAD_XXX_Waugh_J.xml |
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