the preliminary thesis is: it seems to depict a man showing his masculinity through his calm but imposing demeanor . the model shows the intelligence and maturity that only successful businessmen can relate to. he looks determined and poised as if to say "here i am ! do you see what you like?. his awareness of being gazed at, does not bring him shame or a feeling of weakness (or at least this is what the ad seems to convey). more importantly he seems to suggest that it is okay to flaunt and display your manly image with out having to tap into the steoreo-typical views which had classified this revolutionary and innovative movement as taboo.
the supporting point #1.( his blue shirt) seems to indicate bravery and heroism, in that it signifies the colors that are worn by men who usually are acquainted with protecting and fighting for peoples' well-being. also signifies men who are connected with work or some type of cohesive organization.
supporting point#2. (his looks) conveys a fearless nature, not worrying about what society might say about his undertaking with the fashion industry. it shows a manly attitude which he reflects with his fixed stare challenging the intended consumer not to buy any product other than the one being flaunted in this ad. his height shows stature and dominance towering over his competition. his tanned color conveys a firm and decisive personality, one that is not pale or lacking substance. also relates to someone who is adventurous and out-going.
supporting point#3(the back ground or setting ) describes the model as someone who is enjoying the out- doors as the ocean sea flows from a distance, not far from where the action is taking place. he pulls at his bandanna, (an item usually associated with gang affiliation ) in a non-aggressive manner, but yet showing sportsmanship behavior. the setting also depicts a man who is free to do as he pleases ;a man who is in control and aware of his surroundings; a man who enjoys nature. it describes him as an explorer willing to take a venture into the unknown.
While you provide an interesting analysis of the male model in the ad in your preliminary thesis, you do not actually state your thesis. I particularly like your focus on the male model presenting his body for the viewer, without betraying any discomfort with being looked; in fact, he seems to challenge the viewer to look at his body and clothes, and admire him, as you ascribe to the model the following phrase “here i am ! do you see what you like?” But don’t forget that your preliminary thesis should state what type of masculinity the ad is promoting and selling along with the product. The first two sentences seem to be heading in that direction?
ReplyDeleteThe blue shirt, the color itself is closely associated with masculinity as it is commonly the color of a male child’s first clothes, shoes and toys. But you would have to explain/support further the claim that blue is “worn by men who usually are acquainted with protecting and fighting for peoples' well-being.”
The second supporting point, somewhat resembles or echoes what you already stated as your preliminary thesis, or introduction to be more specific. Would you categorize the model as a ‘rock’ that Brodo discusses in “beauty (re)discovers the male body”? The detail about the model’s tan will allow you effectively to transition into your last supporting point, the setting of the ad.
The setting of the ad is very interesting, having Robinson Crusoe quality. But I need you to develop/clarify how this scenario appeals to businessmen whom you mentioned in your preliminary thesis/introduction. Also, I was under the impression, based on your two previous points, that the model is “appearing” and not “acting”, to employ Bordo’s terms? So is the male caught in the midst of actions, “he pulls at his bandanna”, or does he “appear” since you state: “he looks determined and poised as if to say "here i am ! do you see what you like?. his awareness of being gazed at, does not bring him shame or a feeling of weakness”?
Good work, but in the future follow the outline format when asked to do so.