According to today’s New York Times Magazine, “a man with an appealing physique and a willingness to wash dishes . . . could … be a feminist slogan for our time;” in other words, “cute butts and housework.” The new requirement for husband material, is he a good wife?
Annie Murphy Paul continues, “as men’s and women’s roles continue to shift, other standards for selecting a partner may come to the fore,” such as is he a good wife?
{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
I wouldn’t go so far as to emasculate the husband in this fashion, but to say that women expect the spouse (or potential spouse) to recognize a more evolved role in the relationship then yes, I would concur. Potential mates are now evaluated on a spectrum that never existed twenty years ago – to include: his willingness to help with the division of labor and his ability to understand the pressing need for him to be an active participant in the promotion, upkeep and maintenance of the relationship, house, and family. No longer can men assume the champion title of “breadwinner” and rest on their laurels. Women expect so much more from men these days (b/c they simply haven’t the time or inclination anymore to be the June Cleavers) and have long dismissed the notion that they alone shall kill themselves trying to be the lover, wife, AND mother to their husband. Husband’s are expected to be more generous with their time, effort and energy. It simply is what it is. And if that means men must demonstrate that they are sensitive to this sort of demand, then men, heed your warning now and start adding this to your “relationship CV” – it seems to be a job requirement these days. At least, I know my girlfriends and I look for it.