Glorification of Masculinity in The Lost World The male ego and the realization of a man's image of himself can be strong motivating forces behind his actions and behaviors . Society has created parameters used to define a "real" man; failing to live up to these specifications threatens one's masculinity and one's standing among one's peers. These expectations and requirements for manhood are constantly reinforced by society. The prevailing stereotype of the classic "Marlboro Man" along with movie heroes such as James Bond, Indiana Jones and John Wayne give the impression of the adventurous womanizer who laughs in the face of danger and can do no wrong. Arthur Conan Doyle's adventure story, The Lost World, is an excellent example of the pursuit of virility and glorification of masculinity. What begins as a scientific expedition turns into a journey to satisfy repressed male instincts and desires for conquest. With the pursuit of knowledge as an appropriate excuse, explorers of the land of Maple-White are free to devote themselves to the arts of "real" men and live up to their idealized conceptions of their own greatness. From the very beginning of The Lost World, it's easy to see where the plot is going. Edward Malone is preparing to propose to his precious Gladys, but is suddenly denied and told that he is not man enough right now to meet the ideals of his idolized beauty. Gladys explains that she wants a man of action, a man who "makes his own chances" (4). The whole reason for Malone's participation in the activities to come is to prove himself to Gladys through some sort of courtly love process to gain her approval and marry her. To prove himself, Malone aids the famous Lord John Roxton... middle of paper... method of escape, but instead chooses to explore and exploit the confines of the jungle abyss. They left with fame and recognition, even wealth – everything they sought and more. The purpose of the expedition was for Professor Challenger to save face and prove that his story was true; the other three were ready for the journey but were soon involved in the action too. Science took a backseat to Lord Roxton and his adventurous spirit. With courage and courage the men challenged each other and experienced true "male bonding" in its purest form. They reported evidence of this zoological and scientific breakthrough, but more importantly, it seems, they bolstered their egos and confidence in their own worth and abilities. Work cited Doyle, Arthur Conan. The lost world. 1912. Chicago: Chicago Academy Publishers, 1990.