Thursday, February 26, 2015

Visual Elements and Style: Why Modest Men Get the Brush Off From Women


In the article, "Why Modest Men Get the Brush Off From Women," authors Roger Dobson and Fiona Macrae directly call out men for modesty of character restating research concluding women do not actually like modesty in men. Images are shown of actor Hugh Grant (left), famous for his performance playing the timid character Charles in Four Weddings and a Funeral, and Simon Cowell (right) the former unceasingly direct American Idol Judge (Note: the pictures provided in this post are the same pictures used in the article referenced). In the article below the side-by-side portraits, the authors attempt to explain the picture stating that "Research shows that women prefer cocky types like Simon Cowell rather than Hugh Grants bumbling on-screen behavior." In his picture, Grant looks like he is in dire need of some much needed sleep. His hair is messy and facial expression is sickly. Add that with the muffled collar, and the famous actor looks like a complete weakling. Simon Cowell on the other hand is presented as a masculine European sort. His picture reveals some chest hair and signs of a double chin. There are signs of recent shaving activity as well. Hair is neatly gelled. The most important feature is Simon's smile. The authors correctly link modesty  in dress to modesty in character. However, they go too far in displaying a flattering picture of a brash man and an unflattering picture of a timid and shy one. Just as stated in a previous blog, then, it would make sense that women would still give men a hard time about modesty in the article if women are always given these corresponding visuals to follow and associate with.

5 comments:

  1. Both images are ideal for your modest vs cocky argument and is exemplary of how women prefer the arrogant package- from attitude to looks. Your analysis is concise yet detailed of aspects that qualifies the men into the different category.
    This type of preference is also prevalent in music and explains the popularity of rap/ hip hop, rock and pop music that is fundamentally based on the flamboyant personalities of musicians.
    Nice job!
    -Njillan Sarre

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    1. I like how you phrased "arrogant package." Also, nice linking to the concept of genres in music! The linking did not really come to mind when I was writing my posts. Thanks for the new ideas, and thanks for commenting!

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  2. Your analysis is correct in the fact that women usually are more attracted to guys who dress less modestly. I think the main reason for this is that guys who dress this way seem to act more confidently and that is the reason women are attracted to them. The way a man dresses can portray his personality The article is spot on that observation.

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    1. This comment has been removed by the author.

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    2. Yes, I think your comments summarized my explanation of the article well. Thank you for commenting!

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