This study focused on the importance of exploring masculinities in literature , giving insights into power , vulnerability and hierarchy among men. Through the analysis of the representation of men, this thesis sought to enhance an understanding of social norms, power relations, and expectations about gender roles. This analysis supported a challenge to the traditional notion of masculinity by showing in detail how intricately males weave their identities and relationships within narratives. The study relied on close textual analysis of characters in Melville’s Moby Dick classifying each according to Connell’s categories .This study argued that hegemonic masculinity , embodied by Ahab dominates the narrative , while others such as subordinate classified by Ishmael and Flask , complicit masculinity represented by Starbuck and Stubb , and the last one which is marginalized masculinity embodied by Queequeg , Tashtego and Dagoo. This study showed that Moby Dick not just a story of obsession , but a critique of masculine hierarchy , revealing a more complex and fluid model of manhood. The study argued that Moby Dick not only an adventure tale or metaphysical epic rather it is a complex of gender negotiation.
