Roles

Although socializatiion often plays a major part in reinforcing discrete gender binaries, especially throughout childhood, this discrepancy between male and female work can also be seen in the gender specific nature of societal roles.  In the modern era, the distinction between strictly masculine or feminine roles continues to be challenged.  Yet the roles that have been historically associated with men, including hunting and fighting, are often meant to reinforce their masculinity.  For women, the production of material objects and motherhood are the two roles that are often seen as central to their identity.  Unfortunately, the importance of these roles that are generally assoicated with women are often marginalized, distorting the image of women historically.