Dominance Manhood
Many
Traits of dominance-based masculinity present in the media.
Questioning of Dominance
Many
Characters questioning or suffering from dominance norms.
Relational Manhood
Many
Traits of relational, connected masculinity.
Harvey and Louis present a fascinating split picture of manhood. Harvey’s persona is built around alpha physicality and the performance of masculine dominance. Coercion and dominance are presented as his professional superpowers, though his growth arcs toward relational over nine seasons. The pressure from performing invulnerability drives Harvey’s panic attacks and is explored with his therapist. Louis is unabashedly emotional, physically unglamorous - he rejects the Harvey model of masculinity and never resolves to become anything other than himself. Louis consistently drives the show’s questioning of what dominance manhood costs men. Mike is a beacon of warmth, cooperation, morals, and self-regulation.