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Did Brokeback Mountain break the last metaphor for manhood? (Napa Valley Reg)

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Phillip Dampier:
PHOENIX -- Until now, the cowboy was the West's quintessential metaphor for masculinity: John Wayne, the Lone Ranger, the Marlboro Man.

Until the movie "Brokeback Mountain" came out, that is. The story of two cowboys in love, nominated for the Academy Award as best picture, has dared to spoil the long-held notion that being gay and being a cowboy don't mix.

While real-life gay cowboys generally see the movie as an enlightening window into their world, many of their heterosexual counterparts see "Brokeback Mountain" as an attack on the last bastion of manhood.

http://www.napavalleyregister.com/articles/2006/03/06/features/ap_arts_and_entertainment/iq_3328358.txt

Drew Kerrigan:
... What about the leader of a nation? ???  I have never heard or seen a homosexual President or a Prime Minister before. Sure there were gay, lesbian, and even bisexual Kings, Princesses, and Conquerors before but these were during the good 'old times. What about the time NOW?

Aussie Chris:
The article says it nicely: the idea that gay cowboys don't exist is nothing more than homophobic denial.

The implication underlying the title alone is puerile: what exactly does "manhood" have to do with sexual orientation?

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