Traditional approaches to masculinity and femininity have long obscured and oversimplified a multidimensional subject into one that either treats them as opposite sides of a spectrum or regards them as two separate dimensions. The new nonfiction book by Richard W. Coan, notable professor emeritus of the University of Arizona, “Masculine, Feminine, and Fully Human: Developmental Paths Through the Adult Years” (published by AuthorHouse — http://www.authorhouse.com/), takes a different approach and invites self-assessment and exploration into the fulfillment of human potential.
“Masculine, Feminine, and Fully Human” tackles the nature of differences between men and women, examining previous research on the subject and looking at the dichotomy through the lens of mythological figures. In describing this new perspective, Coan writes:
As a number of other writers have recognized, the significant figures in mythologies — gods, goddesses, heroes — embody various distinctive modes of being. Of course, these figures are shaped by the societies that gave rise to their myths. Yet they represent themes that have endured over many centuries, and to a great extent these themes transcend any given cultural setting. The qualities displayed by a significant figure in one major mythology may resemble those shown by significant figures in other major mythologies.
To the extent that the recurring themes of mythology transcend the boundaries of time and place, we can argue that they represent major modes of being that are an inherent part of our nature as members of the human species. …
Our own personal myth may serve us well at one stage in life and then prove maladaptive. If we cling to it too closely, we can limit our freedom to grow. It is my hope that by exploring the major themes of mythologies we can all find fresh ways of coping with the issues in our lives and continue developing in rewarding ways through the years that lie ahead.
Coan also provides readers with a self-assessment to demonstrate how they identify with both feminine and masculine characteristics in their self-descriptions based on ten different factors that Coan has identified. Coan advocates a more comprehensive, inclusive view of adult development, making readers aware of all possible modes of being. By urging readers to entertain these possibilities, he opens the way for exploration into new potentials for growth, awareness and joy in living.
Richard W. Coan is a retired professor emeritus of psychology from the University of Arizona and currently resides in Tucson, Ariz. with his wife, Edith. He has four adult daughters. He pursued graduate studies at the University of California in Berkeley and the University of Southern California, ultimately leading to a doctorate in clinical psychology. A number of his articles and books have been published, including “Shaul of Tarsos” and “Horatio” (also published by AuthorHouse). For more information, please visit: http://www.genderandlifegoals.com/.