SSC Film Studies

How is Scottie's Masculinity constructed?


Masculinity is defined as possessing the qualities or characteristics considered typical of a man. However, it can be interpreted that Scottie has castration anxiety, the fear of masculinity being removed. Thus Scottie is portrayed as a feminine character.

In the opening scene Midge adopts a more masculine role to emphasise Scottie's femininity. She is employed where as Scottie is no longer working. Scottie feels emasculated because he is wearing a corset and he knows not many men wear them. When Scottie is being 'active' he is shot from a low angle and when he fails in the narrative he is shot from camera level, which is what the feminine character is typically shot. He needs a cane to walk, which physically diminishes his masculinity. The can can be perceived as a phallic symbol and therefore by dropping the can is suggesting he has lost his virility.

Scottie requires help from Midge, again positioning him as a feminine character and Midge as masculine. Their engagement last 'three weeks' and it was Midge who called it off, insinuating Scottie is incapable of maintaining intimate relationships. Furthermore, Midge has to explain to Scottie what a bra is making him seem immature.