The Portrayal of Female Masculinity in The Once and Future Witches Novel

Abstract

This study analyzes the portrayal of female masculinity in Alix E. Harrow’s The Once and Future Witches. The research focuses on identifying masculine characteristics portrayed by female characters and explaining how female masculinity is represented in the novel. The study applies Janet Saltzman Chafetz’s masculinity theory and Judith Halberstam’s female masculinity theory. Qualitative textual analysis was used as the research method. The data were collected from narrations and dialogues spoken by female characters in the novel. The findings show that female characters portray bravery, independence, emotional restraint, rationality, leadership, and aggressiveness. The study also identifies three categories of female masculinity represented in the novel, namely butch realness, femme pretender, and male mimicry. The portrayal of female masculinity in the novel reflects women’s resistance against patriarchal systems and traditional gender stereotypes. The study concludes that masculinity is not exclusive to men because women can also embody masculine traits through appearance, social behavior, and actions. The novel also promotes broader understanding about gender identity and gender expression.