Masculinity in Avatar: The Last Airbender - What Makes a Man?

[@SagesRain]

Avatar Generations and The Hegemon's Folly are available now on iPhone and Android- download it today! Campaign Link: app.adjust.com/59ahxyp_nvyb8nf

[@jxhxhkzhjz8032]

Hi sage's rain I love your character analysis and all your videos and I especially loved the video that you made about Naruto's female characters and how the writer failed them and as a big Naruto and anime fan in general I have mixed feelings with the female characters and their representation in anime because most of the female characters in anime are poorly written, fan service, simping and motivation around boys, overpower them and being a love interest and there are just few female characters who are well written. So I have a request, can you please make a video about the female characters in animes and also the representation of female characters in different type of animes that you have seen and which are popular like Attack on Titan, Jujutsu kaisen, One Piece, Demon Slayer, Full Metal Alchemist and more. Also can you talk about what makes a female character or a character itself strong because most of the time when anyone talks about a female character being strong alot of them think about physically strong but sometimes I feel like being physically strong is good but when a character is not strong by their personality it's just make them boring and somewhat unrelatable, it doesn't make them compelling characters and in the end they come into the category of a Mary Sue characters and just only exist in the story to be strong by physically not by personality and in action animes the just exist in this particular series without having any strong motive to even be in the series or even fight and often it makes them in my opinion boring and unlikeable that there is nothing to tell about them in the story. If you like my idea can you please make a video about this topic and also can you mention those female characters who are well written that deserve a lot attention and also can you tell what is your favourite female characters in anime.

[@MyLittleGreenHairdedMermaid]

That game sucks lol

[@guilhermeteodosio40]

You're so based, your analysis are FIRE!!❤‍🔥

[@remenir97]

Uhm, I cannot access the game on iPhone, Belgium here😢

[@MyLittleGreenHairdedMermaid]

@@remenir97 dont worry its not worth it anyways

[@dtay8913]

Rest. Because everyone knows, a man needs his rest.

[@yasirfisher1040]

😮‍💨😮‍💨amen

[@gtrfan137kereere6]

Glad you took that from the GOAT Iroh

[@farrex0]

Me reading this, when I needed to go to sleep an hour ago... ok you are right xD

[@DibbzTV]

Thanks homie

[@adrianreyes8524]

Here, here 🤝🏽

[@NauticalCoffin2404]

Being masculine means being a really buff guy. Someone like Toph Beifong.

[@txtayler7086]

Nope

[@spencervance8484]

Its a reference to the ember island players. Season 3 episode 18 if i remember correctly

[@nancyjay790]

Still love how the real Toph reacts to the stage Toph.

[@dorkblood5087]

I think that’s the episode, yeah Also, Toph’s Ember Island actor is based off of the initial concept of her character-a buff, tough blind boy.

[@kylegonewild]

@@dorkblood5087 She did say they casted her perfectly

[@StardustSaiyan13]

Uncle Iroh was one of the architects of my view of masculinity. He’s kind, patient, powerful, virtuous, humble, and wise. He’s not perfect, but he learns from his mistakes. He knows when to be serious and when to chill or goof around. His natural instinct is to guide and mentor. Men like Iroh are needed for young men like Zuko when men like Ozai fail them. Like Jiraiya (from Naruto), he didn’t seek or want leadership roles, but he was instrumental in raising the next generation of world leaders and setting them on the right path. I think Uncle Iroh is the ideal end result of a man who is receptive to their mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual growth and has found a sense of peace and balance with his masculinity and overall identity. Men like Iroh have a positive impact on the people around them and make the world a better place. Also need to give credit: Sokka: Despite his humorous exterior, he bears a great sense of responsibility when he doesn’t need to, and he just rises to the occasion every time. Respect. Zuko: I don’t think I’ve ever seen character growth done as well as his. No words. Legendary. Restored the f*** out of his honor. Aang: I’m often reminded about what Kuwabara said in Yu Yu Hakusho. Something along the lines of “when men do what they’re supposed to do, it’s not always about what they want”. Aang faced the pressure of having to save the entire world when he was just a kid. He understandably ran away at first, but came back and selflessly did the work to restore balance. And he stuck to his pacifistic morals by working to find new solutions, which I think is worthy of respect. He’s a hero. *Sorry this is so long but it’s like you read my mind! I was just thinking about how accurately masculinity was portrayed in this show and then here comes your video lol

[@michaelramos7026]

I have nothing to say, you've said it all. Facts

[@CelestialInfinite678]

This wasn't long enough but a dam great read my guy 👌💜

[@m481m]

great comment sir, couldn't said it better

[@Rukiah1]

This is an amazing comment and I agree with every bit of it

[@me0101001000]

I'm going to add one more thing. Ozai, IROH'S BROTHER, is the model of toxic masculinity. I do not believe that was a mere coincidence. Avatar creator Michael Dante DiMartino has spoken about his views on masculinity, as has Dante Basco, the VA of Zuko. Iroh and Ozai experienced very similar things for most of their early lives. When Iroh's son was killed, he allowed himself to feel and heal, while Ozai was more than ready to kill his own with impunity.

[@guilhermeteodosio40]

Sokka's the absolute chad, dude's just a regular guy chilling with the Fire Lord, the Messiah, the first metal-bender and the last southern waterbender and still manages to stand out as a character, mf learned respect for women, invented aircraft, lost a rap battle, used drugs, designed the first submarine, mastered swordmenship, self-love and clapped cheeks all in a spam of 6 MONTHS!!

[@ginonunes843]

A true gigachad 😂😂

[@theempireeofficial3935]

A true hero.

[@TheMrPeteChannel]

But is still socially awkward.

[@painunending4610]

Yeah you DEFINITELY need to 'clap cheeks' if you want to be a real man

[@deedee4955]

lost a rap battle lmao

[@wattsnottaken1]

All young men secretly know that Uncle Iroh’s masculinity type is the kind that we know we should strive for. For real we all know it

[@painunending4610]

No not every man knows that. Some people don't want to be Uncle Iroh at all I'm a young man and I don't want to be him, I want to be me. I want to strive for what I want, not to be some cartoon character (he is literally not fucking real) Revolutionary concept but people should actually choose what they want in their life and not be railroaded into roles they didn't choose for themselves

[@frejglass]

​@@painunending4610maybe if you were a little more like iroh you wouldn't be picking fights in a youtube comments section

[@painunending4610]

@@frejglass If you were a little more like Iroh youd be ok with it

[@curtiszyr]

Nah I’m with sozin !

[@kylegonewild]

@@painunending4610 "Revolutionary concept but people should actually choose what they want in their life and not be railroaded into roles they didn't choose for themselves" It is by definition a revolutionary concept. The revolution of men from the chains of patriarchy is an ongoing project only just starting to see the light of day. Your seeming need to include this very aggressive "he is literally not fucking real" clarification as if anyone here is unaware that it's a cartoon is an indication you're still *being* railroaded into roles you didn't choose for yourself. Unless the things you want to strive for include being an insufferable, pedantic asshole. I suppose you could actually be under the impression that someone in these comments thinks Iroh of the Fire Nation exists? I doubt it. Either way, I wish you the best of luck in life being yourself. Even if that self is someone people don't like being around.

[@tuckerhanna4087]

Anyone else shed some tears. Cause this was the guidance I needed

[@me0101001000]

It's raining

[@shivarampersaud6799]

There's a storm out here, fellas.

[@OshiZlebaseball]

I didn't tear up but I definently them.

[@DejiAdegbite]

I'm not shedding tears, I just have something in my eye.

[@soreng.9256]

ye

[@mitchy2699]

I'm a woman and this video made me tremble. I'll never experience the "being the man experience," so I'll never fully understand it. But how I empathize with you guys. Thank you for everything

[@tentiapoe]

We thank you for showing empathy. Pain is difficult, but with people like you it doesn't have to be unbearable.

[@ButteryRagdoll]

I work in the military. As a woman I have to be more masculine than other woman but I'll never be asked to be what I see so many men struggle to be both in and out of the military. I feel that men fighting to be perfect and even perfectly masculine in the military leads to some of the suicides we see.

[@SoulOctavius]

​@@ButteryRagdoll I'm also in it. Been in it for over 2 years now. But I honestly still feel like a kid at heart. Even though I'm grown at 25. There are some younger guys in here then me who are somehow more mentally mature then I am. I went through a bunch of crazy stuff. I don't know what it is. It's not like I don't hold any responsibilities or anything. I'm great at my job. But now I feel no growth in here anymore. I think it was due to me not having parents growing up and being so isolated from people that got me this way. So I'm hoping more traveling will help me to finally reach that mental state of growing up.Or maybe getting married and having a kid will do it. But I've seen some pretty immature childish parents nowadays.

[@Alexander_Grant]

@@ButteryRagdoll The military is where weak men go. Weak men who want to feel strong. It's one of our saddest institutions along with cops. I've never met any man from either of those that showed an ounce of strength.

[@VelvetRed-rz8ur]

@@Alexander_Grant I’m surprised a man it’s saying this.. Me and my girlfriends were talking about this topic, we all agreed that those hyper masculine alpha bros always aim for those types of jobs.. their display of masculinity it’s cartoonish and forced almost as compensating for something 🤷‍♀️ To me aiming for that stereotype of masculinity it’s the same as women aiming to be a Kardashian.. it’s simply not realistic.. very performantive 🎭

[@SpammytheHedgehog]

In a way, Sokka and Zuko were the polar opposite of each other. - Sokka came from the poor Southern Water Tribe and Zuko came from the rich Fire Nation. - Sokka left the Southern Water Tribe to travel all across the world with Aang and Zuko was banished. Force to return home if he captures Aang. - Sokka had always known of his destiny and Zuko had taken a long time to figure out his destiny.

[@wattsnottaken1]

Sokka is such an important character the show makers purposely made him a non bender and I love it

[@skull1161]

@@wattsnottaken1 I think last episode season 3 Sokka is one of the most dangerous people in the show. Take Ty Lee against him and he would have just sliced her in half. Too bad the kid's rating stopped him from being scary with the sword.

[@mr.sandman7339]

@@skull1161 Tbf, Sokka's the only one who has canonically killed someone in the series (Combustion Man) unless I'm misremembering. I'd argue that Aang and Toph definitely have, too, but it got brushed aside bc they were regular fire nation soldiers or earth palace guards.

[@skull1161]

@@mr.sandman7339 Technically Jet died to Long Feng. If you wanna go even farther we see Sozin leave Roku for dead by the volcano. Another far stretch is when Kyoshi creates the island and kills Chin the conquerer. And if you wanna really stretch it then technically Azula killed Aang, of course Katara revived him though. But yeah I agree with what you said that boomerang throw right to Combustion man's head was one of the few deadly attacks in avatar.

[@TrevieTrev]

That’s why ATLA is the goat series. All of these men shaped my view of masculinity and how we strive to be men of quality and kindness. I was a lot like Sokka in my approach but I learned the benefits of being empathic and controlled with my emotions.

[@ducky36F]

I know I saw a lot of what I went through emotionally in all three of Sokka, Zuko and Aang as a young man.

[@TrevieTrev]

@@ducky36F same bro especially Zuko and Sokka

[@MegaMilenche]

@@TrevieTrev If only Aang had healthier masculinity, too. Sadly, he's quite bad when you think about it.

[@TrevieTrev]

@@MegaMilenche he’s a kid bro😅 I’m sure he became good when he became a man and adult avatar.

[@MegaMilenche]

@@TrevieTrev LoK makes him out to be a negligent father and distant husband :(

[@freddogrosso9835]

Ozai: So your uncle convinced you? Zuko: Yes, he did. That moment. That small pause and faint smile. And Ozai is super pissed after that. Man, what a show.

[@samuellaakso7012]

"Choosing Iroh's version of masculinity" is also the moment that changed the future of Fire Nation. Zuko broke the chain. By choosing the complete opposite of what he's been thought his whole life he saved himself and his nation, without nessesarily realising it himself.

[@sabashukvani]

As a young child, this show taught me a plethora of invaluable lessons. Its profundity and wisdom are not to be underestimated. ATLA will always be my favorite show of all time.

[@doctordelatierra]

If I have kids I am showing them ATLA. I didn't appreciate this when I was a kid watching the show, but it's just a phenomenal collection of wisdom centered around the lens of growing up and stepping into your power as a responsible human.

[@SpammytheHedgehog]

Zuko and Sokka had a great life changing field trip.

[@alwayseverythingg]

I always really loved how although Aang is the most powerful man and person in his world, he is a soft and gentle spirit. He can fight, and train, and perform some of the most “masculine” things like defeating the fire lord. But he can also cry, and care, and put flowers on his head, and praise and uplift women.

[@SpammytheHedgehog]

Zuko proved that you don't need to please people to follow your destiny.

[@costelinha1867]

And Ozai proved that those who try to enforce abstract rules for what masculinity is don't have your best interest in mind. They just want to keep you isolated.

[@CyberPunkBadGuy]

like most movements and groups today that demand men should be this or that.

[@cajunking5987]

Yeah trans folks saying a man has to be anybody who identifies one and doesn’t wear dresses

[@starryskies113]

@@CyberPunkBadGuy ?

[@CyberPunkBadGuy]

@@starryskies113 ??

[@WhenIsItUs]

I think before we decide what to do as good men or good women, we should focus on what it means to be a good person. Edit: Awesome video once again, by the way!

[@painunending4610]

There really is no such thing as a 'good person' All people are capable of good, all people are also capable of bad I've seen bad people do good things and good people do bad things. Which one is the 'good person' Morality is a ruse. Read your Striner kids

[@WhenIsItUs]

@painunending4610 Of course it's cool to view Morality as a spectrum, but to say it as an absolute is to discount all the different religions that believe it isn't a spectrum. They are entitled to their beliefs as to what is good and evil. The hope should be that despite their differences they would be able to coexist. Conflict is inevitable, but there is so much deadly conflict that could be avoided. I'm not a religious person, but even many wise and knowledgeable scholars know the futility in trying to prove or disprove the existence of someone's God.

[@painunending4610]

@@WhenIsItUs I wasn't really talking about God or religion but I generally agree with what you said

[@trexasaurus5322]

@@painunending4610yes there is. A good person will always strive to be better and do better. A good person will do what’s right, and make some mistakes along the way. A bad person will not care what they are, act how they act, never look inward, never seek to improve, and of course make bad decisions constantly without learning. A mistake doesn’t make somebody bad, a good deed doesn’t make a bad person good. It’s the repeated habits that make you a bad or good person

[@raralovely13]

This video brought me to tears multiple times and I am a girl! I think I identify with most of the characters of this show mostly because how "human" they are. They don't feel different from me whether it's a male or female character. Yet now I understand even more why this show is ever so graceful. Why its characters always feels so endearing and loveable. Thank you for this wonderful video! ❤

[@alext-rex5492]

Agreed, I'm also a girl and not once have I felt alien to the characters in this show. The issue behind these masculinity and femininity representations in media is that creators often portray characters as representatives of one or the other gender. They forget that it's still a person somewhere in the process.

[@raralovely13]

@@alext-rex5492 absolutely! I think the most brilliant element the avatar series have it is ✨character development✨ for each gender! Which is the most human and realistic thing ever!!

[@mel_pamzzz001]

I'm also crying and as a girl I couldn't agree with both of them more. I'm going to watch "The Tales of Ba Sing Se" now to cry even more haha. I hope everyone is kinder to themselves and embraces the human within them ❤

[@TofuBug24]

I think one of the biggest problems with our struggle with masculinity is we're trying to fix it from the outside in. We demonize the expressions of masculinity without understanding where true masculinity comes from. I was taught both from the examples my father, and grandfathers demonstrated as well as being expressly told how I should conduct myself. For me true masculinity is at its core Selflessness. It's being a humble servant. LITERALLY everything else I am stems from that single core ideal. I strengthen myself, mind, body, and soul because my wife deserves the best husband I can be, my son deserves the best example of masculinity he can have, and my daughters deserve a template to base their eventual level of standards for the men who they might fall in love with when they grow up. I work hard, make a name for myself, operate with integrity because it serves my family. Yes I choose a career I personally LOVE so its not like I'm completely disregarding my own wants, needs, and desires, but I also have a wife who herself serves me and our children with ALL the wants, needs, and desires I could ever have so I'll never feel completely lacking. I walk on the inside of the edge of the road when walking with my wife, or my children, I hold doors for everyone, but especially women, the elderly, and those carrying things. I will never be the strongest, the richest, that smoothest, or any of the things we now think are things to strive for as a man, but I have never and will never doubt my own masculinity. We need to stop teaching young men to emulate external traits without understanding where their roots are set, otherwise we end up with men whose masculine traits have shallow roots, if they have any roots at all. Then the slightest nudge in the wrong direction shatters their whole being, because when the façade is gone they have nothing left to anchor themselves to and endure.

[@Godbrother]

Inside, then outside. Well said!

[@langstonj2476]

so true. thanks for sharing this!

[@olxxa4967]

Wow, you made me cry. Well said

[@aaronshah4847]

Thank you for this beautiful response. It is much appreciated.

[@stickthelanding4785]

When I was young my mother would often tell me to stop acting like a girl or to be a man whenever I cried or was weak when doing something. This made me repress a lot of things making me aggressive and quiet. Hell the reason she does this was that her father had said similar things to her as a child. These traits could carry over for generations if left unchecked.

[@MohamedRamadan-qi4hl]

As much as you dislike it. But sadness and crying blocks resolve and the ability to take action

[@matthewkudray4840]

@@MohamedRamadan-qi4hl source?

[@MohamedRamadan-qi4hl]

@@matthewkudray4840 I don't have a source. These beliefs are like yours {considering you didn't provide a source yourself} it comes from experiences and thinking about the issue

[@Brobese]

​@Matthew Kudray doesn't have one. He's drawing a false equivocation between the actual of crying when one is sad and the concept of just being cry baby who can't control their emotions in difficult situations.

[@deforestshell3037]

​@@Brobese it's all the same. Especially for men. I'm privileged women have is that they don't really lose any social points for crying or showing emotions. Men do though I just want his mother hounded him so hard. Man cannot attract anything with their body or emotions alone like women. Men have to actually go out and Conquer which means having to be better than other people which means having to compete. You can understand why aggressiveness and ruthlessness is also something at a traditionally masculine because if a man can't conquer and become better than what use is he?

[@Nutmeg-]

As a woman, men like Iroh are the ones we desire and need the most. Gentle, caring, protecting, funny, respectful, listening, wise and seeing us women as equals and not just as weak fragile beings who can't take care of themselves.

[@sopht4206]

Iroh's view of women is, I think, reflected in how he talks about Azula in the last episodes. Zuko thinks he'll tell him to forgive, to be nice to her, because she's his sister, in part because she's family but I think also because she's female. He thinks Iroh will advise him to be nice to his younger female sister. Women should be forgiven, they're not *really* doing anything bad to you. Women aren't capable of abuse. However, Iroh does not for one second treat her any differently to how he'd treat her if she was male. He recognises she's so indoctrinated into Ozai's ways that she needs to be defeated. She's capable of hurting people, of being abusive, and of being fully responsible for that harm rather than some innocent woman manipulated into being that way. He recognises, as you say, that women are fully capable of everything men are-including hurting others.

[@llaytonshuemaker3830]

I honestly crazy how great this show is. How is it even possible for a “kids show” to cover such thought provoking and serious topics. Each of the main characters offer so much to the story, they each have so many layers and by the end of the show you feel like you know them. This is truly the goat of childhood shows for me.

[@EstoyPensando]

Your mention of Zhao’s attitude towards Zuko sparing him during their Agni Kai reminded me of his death. How he would rather die than accept the help of a coward, or someone he sees less than a man. Maybe even anyone’s help, as he would see that as a failure on his own part as the leader of this whole siege

[@CyberPunkBadGuy]

thats how people treat men who need help irl they ignore them, insult or dispose of them. Maybe his mentallity isnt wrong or at least it didnt come out of nowhere. Needing help from people or losing , not being useful to others is considered death for a man anyways.

[@EstoyPensando]

@@CyberPunkBadGuy makes sense. Zuko extended his hand first though, and Zhao recoiled with so much spite in his face. To your point about how men are treated irl, i wish i could say i disagree but the stats dont lie. Im well aware men dont ask for help and those that do are often looked down upon, its wild and i hope that will thoroughly change. Have a nice day bro

[@CyberPunkBadGuy]

@@EstoyPensando ohh I should add, about your last lines, nice lipservice bro , have a nice day. all this entire video have been for a bunch of goonies to pay lipservice and virtue signal

[@EstoyPensando]

@@CyberPunkBadGuy didn’t understand any of that, in all honesty, but i get the feeling it wasnt intended to be a good thing. Sorry? I think? Dont waste your time, i probably wont understand an explanation. Thanks anyways tho

[@CyberPunkBadGuy]

@@EstoyPensando thanks for reinforcing my point exactly.

[@tss3393]

All my life, I've felt like I haven't lived up to the way masculinity was defined to me by my family, my peers as I grew up, and what culture defined as acceptably masculine at that time. It wasn't until I got out on my own, separate from all of that influence, that I had the space to explore who I really am. I've discovered my strengths and my principles, and I've learned how to utilize them. I'm taking that journey to reconcile with the fact that my family's ideals and where I came from was such a toxic place, all the while fighting the urge to still apologize for falling short of their standards. I straight up told who's now my dad-in-law when I talked to him before proposing to his daughter that I felt like I was failing in a lot of those pre-defined aspects of being a man. What followed will stick with me forever. He cut me off saying, "Hey, stop telling yourself that right now. Just cut it out, because you are a good man for who you are. In fact, I think you're a great man." That gave me the strength in that moment to embrace myself unapologetically. So I stood up, dropped to one knee, and said, "Will you be my dad-in-law?" He laughed so hard at that and said, "Save that for her, but yes, I'd be happy to be your dad-in-law." Since then, he and my mom-in-law have been nothing but validating in who I've chosen to embrace. A goofball, a hard worker, an introspective thinker, an empathetic listener, a tender partner for their daughter, and now, a gentle father for their grandson.

[@itsdokko2990]

truly heartwarming brother my best wishes to you

[@joesplace2960]

You sir, are what we in the business call a real man.

[@genghisdingus]

I think something people miss about Iroh is that he didn't just stop sieging ba sing se because he was sad Lu Ten died. Lu Ten's death made Iroh realize that his siege was subjecting thousands of people to the pain that he was feeling showing him that his actions were wrong.

[@Chuuzus]

Zuko and Uncle Iroh have the best relationship in this entire Avatar. Uncle Iroh showed Zuko the love he never got from his toxic father Lord Ozai

[@bloodchron1880]

I think this might be one of my favorite videos not just on your channel but all of KZbin that I have ever seen. The way you described being masculine is absolutely perfect and it hit me hard. I am a man who struggles to share my emotions even to my wife who I trust with every fiber in my being. It is just for so long in my life I have cut off most emotions and it is hard for me to get what I am thinking across in a proper way. I always am incredibly nice to people that are not assholes to me or anyone else but I usually hide behind laughter or anger rarely showing emotion more than that. This has motivated me to work even harder at being more vulnerable… more emotional at least to people I trust most being the true meaning of masculine.

[@YukonRC]

I wish you luck bud

[@Ambivlaent]

Same this is one of the best video period. It’s a great way to explain what it is to be a man and honestly I feel like I have to show this to my two little brothers cause I get worried they’ll be influenced by the toxic masc culture and the Andrew Tates of the world. They have to know what being a real man really means❤️ this video was so perfect

[@stormerkromy988]

Masculinity is like Firebending, tainted in rage and negative emotions, but it's truly about passion and feeling. We see in the Warriors of the Sun, they treat Firebending as the origin. A gift to harness, a gift to use out of passion. They are not full of rage, they are filled with passion. Passion for protecting the ancient ways of firebending.

[@deldarel]

This was released yesterday? Woah! I just looked up 'Avatar and masculinity' because it hit me yesterday how Iroh is the pinnacle of healthy masculinity, and how Sokka and Aang approach that kind of masculinity from two opposing sides over the series. I wish Aang's journey was taken more into account. Aang struggles to square his passivism with the fact that sometimes creating a healthy thriving environment for all those around you, you need to stand up against others, and even harm them. Aang is often overlooked because the majority of his masculinity is good, but if the goal is Iroh then he falls short in his masculinity. He's not just carefree, he's evasive. Often in denial of reality. In a way he's a fantastic allegory of someone who's hiding from the anger inside him, and punches walls when it comes out in his avatar state. Mastering his anger is not avoiding the avatar state, but controlling it. Aang goes through a huge inner journey of masculinity. Early Aang isn't able to protect his friends if it requires him to seriously injure someone. Late Aang still struggles with the most black and white dichotomy of kindness or protection. He finds a way outside of the confines of masculinity. A bit of a deus ex machina, but if you take The Matrix' view on masculinity into account, it fits right in.

[@hilarymajor3983]

Thank You! nobody spends anywhere near enough time with Aang as a character or his character arc!

[@alwayseverythingg]

Thank you, although I have a slightly different take on it, I was wondering why hardly anyone was talking about Aang. I really do like though that Aang does both traditionally masculine and feminine things. He’s constantly called girly and even played by a woman in the ember island players episode. While he is the strongest man in his world, he is also one of the kindest and more gentle-spirited as well. None of the air nomads are known to be all that aggressive, and aggression is usually deemed a masculine characteristic. Because he is passive, and tends to look for peace, viewers and other characters in the show think he is weak or soft. Yes, Aang can wear flowers on his head, cry, dance, embrace love, and still be a man. There are a few times in the show where we see Sokka comment on Aang’s less traditionally masculine traits. In book 1, Sokka tells Aang that he is too nice, and needs to act like he doesn’t care if he wants to get girls. That is because it is what Sokka knows, and he sees Aang as his little brother, so he gives him this advice as a man trying to help another out. But other times, like in book 2, when Toph calls Aang “twinkle toes”, Sokka tells Aang that responding to that makes him seem less manly. Finally in book 3, after they have watched the first half of the ember island players show, Aang expressed how he’s upset that they cast him as a girl. To this, Sokka responds in a teasing way that Aang “tends to touch into [his] feminine side a bit more”. This makes Aang a bit mad, because although this was how Aang was taught, it doesn’t always help him out too much. Katara seeks a very masculine man to be in love with her. That’s why she liked Jet so much, and asked the fortune teller if who she married would be tall or handsome or strong. Aang does get a bit self conscious of this when he tries to flirt with her, and he constantly tries to act more manly when trying to whoo her, which usually goes much worse than when he is just being himself.

[@williamraisbeck9382]

Be a man You must be swift as the coursing river Be a man With all the force of the great typhoon Be a man With all the strength of a raging fire Mysterious as the dark side of the moon.

[@mechamogaka6964]

I agree, every man in the show that shows these aggressive, angry, and ruthless traits end up in a horrible place. Zhoa, Ozai, Iroh( after son death), Zuko betraying uncle, Sokka arrogance. It’s only when some of them showed positive traits like kindness, empathy, and understanding do the improve as people. Excellent video Sage!!💯

[@painunending4610]

That works because it's a cartoon though. It's written in an idealised fashion. It's ultimately fake Real life is more complicated. Some people act in that ruthless way and succeed and lead good lives. Meanwhile some people act kindly and empathetically and are left alone and afraid I think this is something everyone needs to accept in life, you can do the 'good and right' thing and get absolutely nothing or even be punished for it. Meanwhile someone else can do everything 'wrong' and succeed. It's a sad fact but it's a fact I feel sorry for those people who gained false expectations that being a good person will make their life better. I say this as one of those people

[@mechamogaka6964]

@@painunending4610 I’m not saying that if u show these traits in your life that everything will magical work out in your life. But possessing these traits people will naturally want to be around you more often than not! Not only that you will be more accepted than a muscle head that only cares about himself and the power he possess rather than other. Obviously this is a kids show but it still does a pretty good job of showing us that everyone has a choice of being good or bad and it’s up to you to decide that. I mean look at Zuko and how he started and ended his journey on the show. That’s partly why he reason he is one of the most iconic characters in recent media for the past couple decades. Best character development ever!

[@painunending4610]

@@mechamogaka6964 That's just not true in my experience I used to be very insecure and would lash out at people as a form of control and a way to get attention. I looked at where that got me, saw I wasn't satisfied or stable and made the choice to do good. I began to develop my kindness, empathy and understanding and made real progress with it Guess what? Nobody noticed. Nobody cared. People treated me the exact same now as they did then Meanwhile I saw those muscle heads you talk about live good carefree lives surrounded by people. Maybe those things will make people like you, maybe they won't. There are no guarantees This is a cartoon. It's written by people in a room making shit up. It simply is not reflective of reality and it's complexities. Iroh isn't real. Zuko isn't real. They're not real and neither are actions they take or the consequences of their actions Don't give people false expectations. Tell them to make the right choice but please don't say it will make their life better, because in this life there are no guarantees my friend I'm sorry if this sounds depressing but I'm just speaking my truth and hoping someone listens

[@mechamogaka6964]

@Pain Understanding It seems like you need to to a therapist or Psychiatrist because these issues and problems your having seem to be internal rather than external. If people continue to treat you bad and pay you no attention even if your trying to become a good person than you should make new friends/ meet new people. Surrounding yourself with positive loving people who don’t judge your past actions but your present. There is no formula for being appreciated and noticed. The best advice I could give you is to be yourself with new people and radiate these positive qualities toward you!

[@mechamogaka6964]

And if you want some further proof listen to 24:00 of the video and you’ll see

[@riverbanzachamploo9725]

13:23 This part really stands out to me because for I've been thinking this for the longest time. Although I'm a girl. Growing up I was also told not to show emotions or not to cry or I'll get beat for being weak. And also women are often looked down at for crying for being "so emotional". I would often hear the men in my family laugh and speak down to my mom and aunts for being "weak and fragile". No matter what was the reason for their tears they were still seen as beneath for showing them which further caused me hold everything in because I didn't wanna be seen as less than too. But seeing people be seen as less than for expressing vulnerability like is honestly really messed up because we people were born with emotions for a reason. Showing them and expressing them doesn't make you weak it just makes you human.

[@thewolven6075]

You'd be surprised at how emotional some guys can be. It often ends up being channeled through anger rather than tears. I mean, I definitely hate crying because of how annoying it is. I prefer to keep my cool in distressing situations and focus on fixing the issue rather than bawling my eyes out. I think the hardest part though, is accepting situations where there's nothing you can do but cry. Logically crying is a good thing since it literally removes stress hormones.

[@katie5998]

Also experienced the same thing as a girl. Why I do think repressing your emotions are presented different depending on societies view of your gender (women are demeaned for being "fragile" and "weak" but their emotions are considered apart of them and uncontrollable, why men are demeaned for not being "man enough" their emotions are not considered a natural part of them) and ATLA made this issue so much easier to sort out later in life, honestly. Seeing Iroh healthily express emotion, Zuko confront his father, Katara feel resentment and grief by her father leaving, Tophs' strength and vulnerability, Aangs courage to find balance and maintain his moral/ethical boundary. Why I do think the men of ATLA are important to men in different ways, particularly in relation to the gender-roles impressed on them specifically, they were also really important to women. Just like I'm sure characters like Katara, Toph, and Suki were important in a way to the men-viewers, just in different ways. It does a good job of framing a characters' growth without strict "you must relate to this specifically" guideline.

[@riverbanzachamploo9725]

@@thewolven6075 Yes. I've seen guys in my life be extremely angry. I always figured it is because they can't be sad. As someone who hasn't cried in years not being able to have that release is insanely frustrating, and that frustration can lead to lead to anger. I felt angry all the time too, but being a black woman we are usually villainized for being angry. So no matter how angry or sad I was I just pretended to be happy and basically minimized myself to a smiling idiot. It's something I'm trying to unlearn.

[@riverbanzachamploo9725]

@katie I agree. Avatar has really helped me in by showing the male and female characters vulnerability as a strength. Seeing Iroh the mighty fire nation warrior be so gentle and cry made me see that crying is not something weak or to be ashamed. And the truly strong are gentle and use their strength to protect others instead of being violent just because they can. But the characters that always stood out to me the most were Toph and Sokka. I loved how even tho Toph was very strong and proud of that she still had moments of being vulnerable and that didn't make her less than by any means. I also loved how her disability didn't hold her back and I could relate to her character a lot because my parents are very over protective and treat me like some egg that'll break I'd not held tightly in their hands. Sokka is actually my favorite character. We are very similar character wise and I really related to Sokka's character a lot because my entire life I've always wanted to be the strong the one. The protector. Because that's how my dad was and I wanted to be like him. Especially considering sometimes he couldn't be around. So everytime I got scared or wasn't strong enough to help out I felt like a failure. So seeing Sokka go threw that same struggle was relatable for me. When he was told being a man is knowing where you are needed. It really struck a cord with me. I learned you don't have to be the strongest to contribute, you just have to know what you're strengths are and hone in that.

[@katie5998]

@@riverbanzachamploo9725 Haha, are we the same person? Sokka is also my favorite character for very similar reasons. He made mistakes, but he always seemed to carry his burden with a strength few other characters did in ATLA without it entirely consuming his identity or compromising who he was as a person, you know? Sokka also had the ability to make mistakes and, eventually, own up to them and admit he was wrong. It was gratifying to see a character be able to grow and change while maintaining that sense of self. Plus, humor is a strength many scoff at, but Sokka really taught me how to laugh at myself and my circumstances. Comedy is golden. I think that's why I also like Spider Man so much, lol.

[@empatheticrambo4890]

Really like this breakdown of masculinity in the show. I’m all about healthy masculinity in our media, from Aragorn to Iroh

[@painunending4610]

Ah great more standards no men actually asked for Break your chains, don't trade them in

[@wildfire9280]

@@painunending4610 I’m not sure that standards replacing standards could be described as “more” standards, strictly speaking.

[@artemisblack-g8w]

I’m not sure that “breaking chains” and having no standards helps any more than having “more standards”, as you so eloquently phrased it.

[@SpammytheHedgehog]

Sokka and Zuko both have powerful elemental bending sisters.

[@tonyperez2703]

This helped me through hard times, thank you

[@kianon3322]

wow this was one of the most intelligent video essays I've watched, not just on its commentary on atla but also its commentary on society. I feel like a lot of people need to hear this, having to do with atla or not. thanks for making this, it put into words what I've been feeling for so long but have never been able to say.

[@patrickoverstreet2372]

The peak of what it means to be a real man is having the capacity to great violence and the will to do so tempered by love, kindness, compassion, empathy, humility, and patience. There is no negative or positive masculinity merely how it is applied. Great physical prowess can be used to protect and save or to conquer and ravage, it is not inherently a bad thing and so on for what is called masculinity.

[@TatendaMikey]

Till this day, avatar still inspires me. Thank you for the beautiful video and reiteration of being enough.

[@thenandtherefore]

11:29 When Zuko shouts angrily at the lightning he looks to his side/back first before tearing up-making sure that he is alone and not being watched by Iroh, another man(despite him being a father figure). I thought this was pretty in line with what you were saying during this segment of the video and the harsh environment he had grown up in

[@thenandtherefore]

I’d forgotten what happened in the scene honestly. Maybe he was looking back because that was where Iroh was and he knows he’s being watched. And being unable to do (lightningbend) what Iroh, a man he looks up to in strength does, was shameful and exposes his failures and incapacity he has tried so hard for years to fight This is in his eyes, another emasculating and humiliating moment of failure infront of a father figure, though to a lesser extent of the one he experienced with ozai

[@SpammytheHedgehog]

Sokka proved that he does not need to be a Bender to be great.

[@saltywaffle2622]

My father passed when I was 12 but I know he’d be proud of the man I am today with my values I gained from my mother

[@darthscrub6546]

"To be considered gentle, a man must be capable of great violence."

[@arcticpossi_schw1siantuntija42]

This is one of the best videos about masculinity on youtube It isn't toxic It's actually wholesome, intelligent and useful

[@smyliejo]

Can you do Femininity in avatar??? It’s funny, because both men and women have very similar struggles, just in different perspectives. Somehow tho, I’ve found myself struggling with masculinity, and denying femininity. This video helped me out mentally with this. So if I know what it is to be a man, what is it to be a woman? In all honesty they both have traits and values that everyone should follow and understand to be a well rounded decent human being. But since the world is gender specific about this social construct I’d like to know. 20:39 specially if like to know your take sagesrain.

[@val-ci5fo]

As a woman studying sociology, I can add a bit of input (maybe not as detailed because this is a KZbin comment section) and I feel like Toph, Katara, and Suki's femininity kind of parallel the masculinity of Aang, Sokka, and Zuko. Toph is the more "masculine" of the 3 whilst Suki is would say is the most comfortable with her femininity and expression. Katara struggled a bit with herself as she was abruptly put onto a situation where she had to be a fighter, a masculine role, while growing up being taught that she has to stay behind, care for the kids, sew the men's torn clothes, and help Gran-Gran with chores. She knew she wanted to use her gift as a waterbender to fight for her people but she struggled finding out how and who to look for for guidance to become a true fighter something only the men in her tribe would do. In the beginning she associates anger and negative emotions with being a warrior through observation which is what would hold her back often and make her quite stubborn (such as being jealous that Aang picked up on waterbending quicker and her constant disputes with Toph.) A lot of the time with us women, because we're always perceived as gentle nurturers who's role is to be the caretakers with a soft and weak demeaner that the only way we felt we could be heard is through expressing anger and sternness the way men would. We try to be loud and yell whats on our minds because we felt that's the only way we could possibly be heard, even if it was impulsive. The same issue was made for Toph who was not only perceived as a weak young girl who can't possibly do anything for herself, but was also completely infantilized due to her disability. Her tough exterior was a result from her experiences of not being allowed the freedom to explore herself and ended up wanting to be freed from the shackles of what would be traditional femininity because she associates it with being weak. She becomes gross, messy, loud, and also fiercely independent, anything to separate herself from the prison her parents and even society would put her in all as mostly a defense mechanism which is very common in young girls. Young girls are taught at a young age that femininity is something weak, cringy, stupid (eg, "you throw like a *girl*" "Don't be so *emotional*" etc) so a lot of them reject anything that could be perceived as feminine so society wouldn't view them as weak or as basic as other girls. This mindset of hers ends up clashing with Katara who grew up being given much more traditionally feminine responsibilities that Toph never had to deal with due to being infantilized. Unlike Toph, Katara understood that these feminine aspects of life isn't useless nor weak, they are responsibilities just as much as being a fighter is as well as perfectly normal to indulge in (which she tried to show to Toph in tales of Ba Sing Se.) But Toph remained stubborn and even kept associating it with the type of restrictions her parents put her through so she tries everything to reject it. She associates these responsibilities as something that would drown her from exploring who she is as a person and would strip her of her autonomy. Now onto Suki, she is a pretty great example of someone who knows how to be a fighter whilst being incredibly comfortable in her femininity, as well as Ty Lee. Both Suki and Ty Lee are arguably the most feminine main characters of the series and neither of them ever thought their femininity would hold them back of their strength and abilities as fighters, they even utilize it. They don't usually express aggression, sterness, nor stoicism to feel taken seriously by other people. They're women who are confident and secure that their actions will always speak more than their words and often prove themselves to be forces to be reckoned with by showcasing their highly skilled abilities and techniques, and that alone was enough for them to be seen as true threats to their enemies. This will be all I'll write for now since I don't want to make this comment an entire book lol

[@SomeGuy-gc8zs]

To me, masculinity is a lot like Zuko's twin swords. It's two halves of a whole, used in conjunction. Be emotionally vulnerable and available for the people you love, and also be capable of great violence to protect them. Be kind and compassionate, but don't be afraid to be dominant and use intimidation to stop someone from pushing the weak around- because doing so can in fact come from a place of kindness and compassion. Be aware of and in touch with your emotions, but also in control of them. Know when to be humble and back down, and when to be proud and stand your ground. Balance is key, just like everything else.

[@tic857]

One of the greatest moments is when he duel wields without the mask. No longer hiding the morals and ethics he holds in his gentle heart, but also unafraid to use the aggression and power hes learned to fight and protect.

[@HeartlessKnave]

YinYang. It's already in the show by name representing itself better than Zuko's twin swords.

[@LiarJudas666]

hell yes, well said

[@troybaxter]

Couple points. One, I really like what you said about being in control of your emotions because you have to know when there is a time and a place to show them and when to not. A true man knows that he needs to be the firm rock for his friends and family in hard times, and he cannot let his feelings overwhelm him. But, a true man also knows that when things are good, he must also be able to celebrate in them and not be an emotionless robot. Kinda like Iroh. Iroh was more than willing to celebrate successes of others, especially Zuko, but he also knew how and when he needed to be a firm foundation for Zuko physically and emotionally. Two, I have to disagree with you on that last point. Being humble is knowing your place. It is not lowering yourself below where you truly are. A humble man knows what he is good at and what he is not good at, and is open to saying it. For instance, I know I am a decent engineer. I cannot, nor should I ever deny this fact. Conversely, I am a terrible dancer. I just am, but I know I have the capacity to improve if I put effort into it. Conversely, pride is two fold. Pride is thinking too highly off yourself AND thinking too lowly of yourself. Both are prideful in their own ways, as you either see yourself as better than everyone else (the conventional pride we all think of), but also, you are prideful because you decide to compare yourself to others because of things you think you should rightfully obtain. I only bring up this last point because it establishes a dangerous mindset in what it means to be humble, and that it is vital to understand what it truly is.

[@HeartlessKnave]

@@troybaxter I disagree with some of what you said, but can't be bothered to write an essay as to why. Best example I can give is a quick anecdote. Taking Occupational first aid 1 myself I was told of Paramedics past who had taken the course because their EMT credentials don't apply as OFA 1 (8 hours), 2 (36 hours), or 3 (72 hours) so they need to get one of those certifications for their desired position as an OFA attendant. A paramedic complained once saying "This is ridiculous, I could be TEACHING this course, just give me the final test and let me leave." So he was promptly told "Then next time apply to teach the course, for now you're either here to participate or you can leave without the certification." Regardless. "Why Iroh is the Pinnacle of Masculinity" from about four months back is a much better video than this one, for exactly some of the points you raised.

[@dejahdanger]

I just got a kitten a few nights ago and named her Iroh after everyone’s favorite uncle. Great analysis. I’ve loved this show for eighteen years.

[@obadijahparks]

A man is a boy that learned to think independently, while also knowing when, and how, to learn from another.

[@deforestshell3037]

If that was true, in every man would have more respect. But that's not true. We all know what a real man and despite me loving the show in the Thames I think we all need to stick to reality. Men cannot be weak and we can mean whatever at whatever time I Society but we all know what that is. Gendercat both be a social construct while also stating something like toxic masculinity exist. Men have to get stronger mentally and physically and more so than women so they can stay attractive to women

[@obadijahparks]

@@deforestshell3037 nothing I said contradicted this.

[@deforestshell3037]

@@obadijahparks what I mean is. Let's say I am a dude who doesn't want to work. Let's say I don't want to allocate my time to working and instead doing something else. On one hand I am foregoing something traditionally masculine for my own enjoyment. But I can't complain if I don't get people's respect because now I am technically by our society standards a loser. A man who doesn't work. Just because you yourself are independent of what your gender is does not mean outer Society is not going to judge you based off of your gender. Which basically means I can be an uncle iroh all I want. But in my modern day Society I'm still going to be very much just to be like ozai

[@robertenbre8188]

@@deforestshell3037 come on man. your 2nd comments starts with "Let's say I am a dude who doesn't want to work" - as you try to analogize being a non-traditional male character. In our hyper capitalist society, of course that instantaneously comes across as a "loser". there's still a lot of other non-traditional things you can do (things mentioned in the video, like being kind, empathetic etc.) that won't make others think of you like that, not even close. some probably could say you're a "weak man", yeah, but who's to say what is the right way to think of anything like this anyways. and who cares. who cares if the masses will judge you for those things. don't be so dependent on the masses' judgement. you can be whatever you'd like to be, act however you'd like to act and still find your people eventually. and those are the only people that matter.

[@jacobhebert1026]

Another amazing video. Avatar has always been one of my favorite shows and i think one reason is because how the male characters are so much more than the strong archetype. Ive always valued empathy , kindness, wisdom and other qualities portrayed in the show. So the show positively reinforces these in me and gives me something to strive to be like. I love how you always know what to say. You must spend a long time on these scripts. Great work !

[@bananachamana1787]

I cried so much watching this. The feelings of shame of being the loser and the buffoon as Soka but the possibility to rise made me feel vulnerable yet still hopeful. Thank you for this

[@Tynamite843]

I’ve been doing a lot of soul searching lately. With this show being a huge part of my life growing up, this video really helped. Thank you my dude ❤

[@NekoSchlingel]

I’m usually an emotional stone, but the scene where Zuko reunites with Iroh gets me every time

[@leviporter480]

This was the greatest explanation of masculinity I have ever heard in my life. I recently got married and I've been trying to understand what it means to be a man, and I think I finally understand what it means. Thank you

[@VelvetRed-rz8ur]

You have open your “healthy masculinity” chakra.. congratulations 👏🫂

[@Ambivlaent]

Being a real man is knowing that kindness and gentleness is not a weakness but a strength. This video was amazing (as always!!) you said it all and so succinctly, one of best breakdowns of the avatar characters and manhood that I have seen. I know a lot of people also say the same thing about the avatar men but this video was phenomenal🫶 you’re awesome and I love your content friend

[@painunending4610]

Kindness and gentleness can be both a strength and a weakness depending on the context I don't understand why people feel the need to see something as one or the other. Usually it's both

[@Ambivlaent]

@@painunending4610 like you said depending on the context. People can absolutely exploit you for your kindness but I think it does take strength to be kind in the first place, regardless on if others see you as strong. Like it takes a lot of guts to be true to yourself and show empathy or kindness towards something when all you get is people/things lashing out at you. It takes a very strong person to see that and STILL choose to be kind in the end.

[@painunending4610]

@@Ambivlaent Fair. I get you now. Unfortunately I don't think I'm that strong much of the time lol

[@Ambivlaent]

@@painunending4610 thank you for taking the time to understand though :) its more than most people would do.

[@obsidian7295]

There’s a difference between being a good man, and being good at being a man. I’ve always loved this dichotomy. “The way of men” by Jack Donovan is a great resource. Great video!

[@rinpaisys]

I think one of the most underrated writing choices in avatar is making the final boss, the penultimate villain of the series, the big bad himself…Ozai…easily the most one note, single faceted, least complex character of the entire series. The fight against him was not even close to the most challenging fight the gaang had by a longshot. His character was evil for evil’s sake, and that evil at it’s strongest was not that strong nor compelling. It treated a genocidal dictator as boring, and kind of a let down…something I think we in the real world could stand to do regarding real word evils as opposed to treating them almost as celebrities, or myths and monsters. Handle them as pathetic, boring, small and weak humans who’s only thing they are capable of is trying to make themselves feel powerful by harming those that cannot defend themselves. Ozai’s being the ONLY Zone-note character in the entire series and a relatively easy win all things considered is, in my mind, a great choice that does not get discussed enough. Even cabbage guy had more complexity than Ozai, and I appreciate that decision.

[@daniliotaloma]

Everyone who loves these shows needs to see your work. Your analyses are incredible and always provide new clarity, almost like I’m experiencing the show for the first time again. Thank you for sharing how Avatar shows true masculinity, this essay really resonated with me!

[@RaeontheLeft]

The fact that you don't have a Mill+ in subs is a damn shame. Every video you put on is so well thought out and researched. I have been subbed to you for years and have seen the growth of you and your videos. Keep making gold.

[@JBOBROSKII]

I don't know why, but every video talking about men and fathers always puts tears in my eyes.

[@LorentzInvariance]

Late to the game, but I want to plug my own 2 cents. This show, is just so well written, from character development, to growth, to struggle, to being a good person. I’ve watched my fair share of essays on the narrative, and through all of them, it’s led me to understand, this story will stand the test of time.

[@dolomonspov5079]

Oh this gonna get me in the feels this perfect.

[@colingallagher1648]

it has some of the best character writing of any work ever, not just of cartoons.

[@SpammytheHedgehog]

Sokka's dad left home. Zuko's dad kicked Zuko out of his home.

[@qayssarjrd5399]

Suko cried three times in the series and I felt everyone of them

[@eusoumateusrocha]

I can't express how much I needed to see this video. Thank you so much for putting it up

[@tabsi2436]

To become strong is in itself nothing bad. But strength to protect is completely different than strength to attack.

[@lucajustluca8257]

Strength without kindness is cruelty, kindness without strength is pandering. Be as kind as you are strong, and as strong as you are kind.

[@bigbrainb4662]

This was a brilliant video. I cried. I will call my dad later today. Thank you.

[@DragonStar524]

I think Sokka's dad put it best : Being a man is knowing where you are needed most.

[@me0101001000]

I have to admit, I don't even think about my own manhood that much anymore. I like to philosophize about masculinity, manhood, and patriarchy from time to time because they're interesting concepts. But for me, I can't do it. I've lived in a few countries, been around many cultures, and their ideas of the same thing are so vastly different. I've come to the conclusion that gender is a very cultural thing, such that you cannot just attach to sex and sexuality. It's far more than that. And it seems that most academics seem to agree, though their takes are far more nuanced and in depth than my simple firsthand experience.

[@MohamedRamadan-qi4hl]

I did the very same thing and no their are certain themes constantly being repeated accros these roles Men always accros all cultures handle the what is considered the most dangerous tasks and requires the Most hardship. That is just one example

[@me0101001000]

@@MohamedRamadan-qi4hl oh of course, that's not to say there aren't patterns and themes. What I was trying to convey that even the most 'traditional' forms of masculinity are not universally set in stone. They adapt to the needs of the location and events.

[@MohamedRamadan-qi4hl]

@@me0101001000 no that isn't what you implied. You claimed that gender roles are entirely cultural and have no basis human biology or nature. But are just made up according to the occasion. If that was true we wouldn't find such repeation

[@keaton5101]

​@@MohamedRamadan-qi4hl thats literally not what he said ??

[@MohamedRamadan-qi4hl]

@@keaton5101 what part of entirely cultural and that you can't attach it to biological sex doesn't imply that?

[@maytalacedo20]

avatar is interesting when showing different kinds of masculinity. a show for kids is so impressive.

[@gyurto]

Although when I was young, I didn't understand the depth of ATLA as I do now. I like the cool bending and stuff, but of course the deeper meaning went past my head when I was like 7 or 8 years old. However, I can still feel how profound of an effect this series had on me. Maybe I didn't understand what it all meant at the time, but I know it stuck with me. As a person without a male role model in my life, I had struggled with many of these things myself too. I often went down the wrong path, but it never felt right because deep down I knew what the right path was, I just couldn't find it. Letting kid's watch these much more complicated stories, full of great teachings is important. It let's them internalise good qualities, even without them knowing. Even if someone decides to go down a wrong path, it doesn't matter because they have seen what the right path is. Eventually all will find them way because we all have the guidance from the mentors that we never really had.

[@bubbleheart500]

A man according to atla is a man who fights against empirialism even the ones who directly benefit from it 🌸

[@andrewlentner]

The thing i love about Iroh is that despite being the kind, goofy character, he is still powerful. Some characters like him in media are also portrayed as weak or passive, which defeats the purpose. Iroh shows that there is nothing stopping a man from being all these things at once.

[@-UnknownHero]

As to what is said at 12:30, so that only on isolation a man will prove who he actually is, I would say it applied to some of the characters. As the Blue Spirit, Zuko is calm, collected, in Zuko Alone, he shows what turns out to be his true self later. It was when other people from the Fire Nation were around that he was not himself. It also probably applied for Iroh, when he was alone, and to some extend for many others like Toph (though not a man) that she had to be seperated from her parentd to recognize that she liles to have a family or bonds in general. I would be very happy and... HONORed if this comment is interesting enough to reply to it. Please do get me wrong for commenting on the one thing one might could critizise. It really stands out that you put a lot of work into this video essay, resulting into great work, as usuall, as well as that you have invested quite some time on studying for yourself what masculinity is (for you, not agreeing with everything you said).

[@Tebtome]

And this is why atla is the greatest show in all of history. Each and every character is flawed in some way, but they learn and grow and that's what we love about them, that's what makes them relatable.

[@robertenbre8188]

i'd say it didn't really apply. while Zuko was physically isolated from Iroh, he was not isolated from his influence. learning from someone, growing with the help of others, can happen any time you do reflect on their words. physical isolation doesn't mean truly being alone on your journey. and Zuko never was.

[@OrganicAlumination]

I think zuko's character development might have been more difficult if his dad treated him like azula and his mom didn't show him as much love. Because even though at times his mom was oblivious about azula she loved him so much. Sometimes men can become stuck in the disconnection if that maternal figure was the more toxic

[@strikeforce1500]

I never had a male example, my grandparents died before I was born, my uncles werent that close, and my dad peaced out for most of my life. The only teachings I got about being a man, is to be tough,stoic, brave,to never cry,be a leader, always be ready to fight. I grew up being told 'Man up', but nobody ever thought me on how to be a healthy man in general. I try to learn to be a good man, in a way,being like Iroh, but I feel like a Sokka as I try to understand this weird aspect of life

[@floofzykitty5072]

It's crazy that once upon a time, "gender is a social construct" was something to be laughed at... When objectively, it is true. In some cultures, wearing your hair long is a sign of your masculinity, in others it is the opposite. In some cultures, a skirt is a clothing item men wear, but in others it is one only women wear.

[@jurassicsmackdown6359]

And those are just two of the MANY many examples of why and how gender roles are socially constructed.

[@AgentMercer]

Long hair aint a gender, buddy

[@intorian1149]

@@AgentMercerlong hair is treated as an expression of one’s gender though

[@jurassicsmackdown6359]

@@AgentMercer neither is being an ignorant moron

[@LoganSobczak-wm3jc]

​@intorian1149 not really.. men have always have long hair throughout the ages and seen as masculine

[@oceanman6973]

Masculinity is power. The power to love your neighbors and the power to end their sufferings.

[@CharmCityGamer]

Thanks for all of these awesome Avatar vids Sage!

[@nealheadley50]

You don't aim to be a nice guy, you aim to be a good guy. Because being nice it isn't always good, and being good isn't always nice.

[@madmank7881]

What you said is nice but is not easy to be vulnerable especially if you have been stabbed in the back by people you are kind and compassionate towards, but at the same time I am not the most masculine person and I am connected to my "feminine side" it's just that I don't trust people to even bother showing them a positive or negative emotion as even one can be used against you.

[@mdsk4]

Thank you for arranging these words and taking the time to speak them, edit and share. This perspective is a beautiful reminder and wonderful reflection exercise. It moved me to tears a few times as I listened while I was working. I appreciate your efforts wholesale as you create and propagate positivity/change.

[@dylanclark9903]

Your content always gets me right in the feels Thanks for your beautiful work

[@katblackwell]

This is one of the best videos of ATLA I've seen. It's a crime it doesn't have more views. Incredible job, man!

[@Iris-is5ou]

I look at most boys my age and see how they don't allow themselves to feel, and how they judge the boys who do. They all suffer and make the others feel isolated for not holding all their emotions inside. I feel sorry for them, because the social pressure to be angry and "powerful" seems to kill their hearts. I also feel angry at them for how they treat me and the other girls with so much disrespect sometimes. But I've met great boys and men too. My grandpa is the first one I think of when I think of a man. Someone who loved his family with all his heart and always made sure we were all safe and happy. He wasn't afraid to say he loved my grandma, he wasn't afraid to cry or be vulnerable. And as a girl, that's what I think a true man is.

[@MohamedRamadan-qi4hl]

Sorry but where I come from being angry is the highest form of feminine behavior. It means you can't control yourself

[@deforestshell3037]

Not every person feels that way though. For every girl that says this are at least three more who reinforce toxic masculinity on young boys just as much as men do. I hate videos like this because you guys are trying to act like ginger or some type of social constructs yet you all reinforced it whenever we bring up standards of what men should or should not be doing.

[@Ambivlaent]

@@deforestshell3037 wait why would you hate an awesome video like this? It’s talking about how in a society we have to change our prospective on what a man is for the better. Toxic masculinity not only hurts men and their stunted emotions but also everyone else that gets caught in the path of rage. The world could do with more kind people ❤

[@deforestshell3037]

@@Ambivlaent it's not that meant emotions are subjects. Is that they literally are penalised for showing any other emotions outside of anger. What I mean by that is a young boy individually can be as healthy and his masculinity as he wants but that's not going to stop society from treating him like crap if he doesn't perform

[@Ambivlaent]

@@deforestshell3037 I see what you mean, I just hope as a society we stop penalizing boys for expressing emotions. I think we’re taking the right steps to correct that when people make videos like this to spread more awareness and tolerance. ❤️

[@aislinnm.b.7458]

This is an incredible breakdown. It made me appreciate the show’s writing, it even made me cry. So good.

[@georgekostaras]

As I enter my 30's, I've come to understand that manhood is something you have to discover for yourself. Nobody can give it to you, and it'll look very different from one man to another.

[@painunending4610]

And if yours is the 'wrong' kind people will hate you for it and try to change you

[@georgekostaras]

@@painunending4610 try being an art's kid in a mostly sports family, you'll understand what I'm getting at. Or ask any of my queer friends

[@painunending4610]

@@georgekostaras I was an art kid, admittedly not in a sports family, but I know what it's like If you don't fit a certain kind of standard people will hate you until you do. That has never and likely will never change. Even the people here who talk about 'healthy masculinity' do it

[@georgekostaras]

@@painunending4610 at some point, you find people who love people for you, they love you as you are and only ask for the same. It's not easy but they exist

[@traevon.m.]

Wow I never realized how much I needed to see this video as a young person in my early 20s learning what it means to become a man. Thank you for this video. It really spoke to me. 💯👏🏾

[@fireiron369]

Masculinity will always be strength. The strength to defend your beliefs. The strength to defend your family. The strength to honestly consider that you may be wrong. But most importantly the strength to keep going.

[@magiv4205]

The strength to admit when you're weak The strength to show positive emotions The strength to cry from negative emotions

[@magiv4205]

This was absolutely beautiful, heartbreaking and heartwarming at once. Thank you for all these beautiful citations from books aswell, they really supported your points so well.

[@SpammytheHedgehog]

Both Sokka and Zuko were trained by Master Piandao.

[@deadpie01]

I thought I would be able to fall asleep to your videos, but the words and ideas you speak only make me want to stay awake and listen. How dare you write such great essays. Keep doing it. I love them.💜

[@raven3067]

I'm a simple man. Whenever I see SagesRain, I click.

[@lolmuffen8604]

“…that will kill us eventually, physically or mentally…” Damn that hit much… much harder that it should’ve

[@nickhagan3207]

Had to like the video before I’ve even watched it

[@Bombo_game]

This video really helped me. Im serious. Lately ive been very conflicted with myself over a lot, wondering is everything worth it or am i doing the right thing, but this video showed up at the right place right time. Seriously thank you. I get to live and feel another day and many, many, more.

[@melancholykiwi6963]

Thank you for this video. As someone who’s transmasculine, I’ve struggled a lot with the fact that I exhibit a lot of traditionally feminine traits (liking makeup and fashion, sensitivity, delicacy). I worry they make me less of a man. So I’m trying to redefine masculinity for myself. I am someone who loves and feels deeply, like the men in ATLA. I am true to myself. And just like you said, that is what truly makes me a man.

[@Jesusblowsme666]

Good luck on your journey 🙏 I'm a cis man who loves wearing makeup and doing girly things but I also enjoy getting my hands dirty. To me, these qualities enhance our manhood rather than reduce it. So keep being you and hopefully the next generation of men will follow in our footsteps :)

[@trevorwalsh7196]

I’m a man with more stereotypical guy interests like weight lifting, etc… but I love it when I see other men embracing more “feminine” interests. I’ve been trying to get out of my comfort zone and enjoy new hobbies often seen as less “masculine” like cooking and baking and love it. I want to try art as well but currently suck 😂. I think that any man who judges another person by how masculine or feminine they present or hobbies they enjoy is one that is deeply insecure. Life is to be explored and enjoyed in various aspects and I get such a smile on my face when seeing a man dressed up more feminine or vice versa since I know they are expressing their authentic self.

[@MasquedMocha]

@@trevorwalsh7196 even if you suck at art, just keep at it and you'll be great at it in no time! It's all about practice there, so don't count yourself out if you're not great right away

[@alwayseverythingg]

I would love to see femininity in Atla as well. Specifically Katara and her femininity is something I would love to hear about.

[@DANNY199566]

Love your work 🎉

[@Steve_Hickman]

It's intriguing how this hit home in so many ways. Talking about masculinity and what it truly means can often devolve into something toxic, where if you're not doing X, Y and Z, it is then called into question about who you are. As a man, he must be given the opportunity to fail, admit his faults, show sensitivity and vulnerability, display kindness and empathy, all without their cultures calling their masculinity into question for not fitting _their_ norm of what a 'man' should be. Avatar presented this topic in such a nonchalant and insightful way, it would easy to forget this was a show meant for children.