When Masculinities Collide: Discursive Negotiation and Contestation in the Novel Alí en la fiesta del País de las Maravillas

Abstract

This research article aims to (1) classify and explain the representations of masculinity in the novel Alí en la fiesta del País de las Maravillas through four conceptual categories—hegemonic masculinity, toxic masculinity, positive masculinity, and subordinated masculinity—and (2) examine the dynamics of discursive contestation between hegemonic and subordinated masculinities through three forms: identity-negotiation discourse, confrontational reclamatory discourse, and conceptual counter-discourse. This qualitative study employs an interpretive approach and Critical Discourse Analysis, integrating the concepts of hegemony, representation, and masculinities. Frequency counts and percentages are used as descriptive support for the textual analysis. A total of 100 data units were selected from words, passages, dialogues, and brief scenes in the original Spanish text and assigned to their primary analytical dimension according to their predominant characteristics. These comprised 84 units concerning representations of masculinity and 16 units concerning discursive contestation. The findings show that, within the representation dimension, toxic masculinity was the most frequent category, accounting for 35 units (41.7%), followed by hegemonic masculinity with 23 units (27.4%), subordinated masculinity with 18 units (21.4%), and positive masculinity with 8 units (9.5%). Toxic masculinity functions both as a means of subordinating those who deviate from heteronormative expectations and as a defense mechanism through which characters attempt to preserve their masculine status. Although positive masculinity was the least frequent category, its manifestations indicate the emergence of alternative masculine practices based on empathy, responsibility, and the acknowledgment of vulnerability. Within the discursive-contestation dimension, confrontational reclamatory discourse and conceptual counter-discourse were equally the most frequent, with 6 units each (37.5%), while identity-negotiation discourse accounted for 4 units (25.0%). Together, these forms illustrate a progression from questioning dominant assumptions to confronting and rejecting shame and ultimately resignifying derogatory language as a symbol of pride. The findings suggest that masculinity is not a fixed identity but a power relationship that can be negotiated, challenged, and transformed. Contemporary literature can therefore function as a discursive arena that reflects, interrogates, and opens possibilities for changing the social meanings of masculinity.