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The demise of a traditional male character is largely due to the changing family and work dynamics and the rise of an independent female in a contemporary world. Changing human behavior and values have also something to contribute to the, not quite reversal, but a definite adjustment of male and female gender roles. As a result, a contemporary male is quite a different character from his predecessor just a generation ago, and while some may greatly exaggerate this phenomenon by calling it the fall of the great American male, others, perhaps more perceptive ones, can see that the change in gender roles is a positive one.

What did a traditional male view himself to be? A breadwinner, provider for the whole family, he was the man of a strong moral background and a hard work ethic, with uncompromising values and real American pride. A traditional male could be a rude and crude brute with boots made for stomping in the dirt and a cigarette behind his ear. He could also be a powerful businessman, working harder than nine to five and allowing himself an occasional whiskey or scotch every Wednesday. He was a cigar-smoking, poker-playing, well-spoken artisan of his trade. His woman was a little, impeccably-dressed lady decked out in pearls and always on a stand-by to attend her husband's receptions and galas. A traditional American male was of a superior, more extensive education than his female counterpart. He was a conqueror and a heart-breaker.

Today, he is a stereotype of an yesteryear era, and though many men still aspire to the ideals set forth by their forefathers decades ago, they are often faced with the reality of the changing world. Without a doubt, the changes to the traditional male and female gender roles are all around the dawn of the rise of a more sensitive male is upon us. In a very parallel development, the roles of females are facing a great change as well. Though the woman's movement has been around publicly for over a century, the gradual gain of rights, responsibilities and, most importantly, jobs have all been the eventual results of the female push toward equality and are all significant contributors to the changing roles of males today.

Masculinity, as a defined set of characteristics, is fading in its appeal, as the specific traits like independence, toughness, outspokenness can be easily acquired by an average female today. Exclusive boys clubs, though still persistent and popular, are becoming less exclusive by the year, as women are

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