The concept of Australian identity has changed over the course of history especially since the domination of media representation in contemporary society. From the image of a bushman to a larrikin, the identity of an Australian male evolves as the society develops, but the essential core of the Australianness remains largely on the concept of masculinity and mateship. Most of the sportsmen are considered to be the representation of the larrikins, who did not adhere to polite social conventions or rules and act rough around the edges (Hogg class lecture). Australian male identity is independent, resilience to dilemmas and especially for larrikins, they do not adhere polite social conventions and rules of behaviours. Moreover, sport is the best medium for men explore and define their masculinities (Booth 1997).
As a famous Australian athlete, Ian Thorpe challenges the traditional Australian identity and upgraded to a level of resilience and positive worldview in modern Australian males.
As Australia’s greatest Olympian, Ian Thorpe has won a number of national and international titles since his teenage years. He announced his retirement from the swimming field at the age of 26, as a multiple world champion winner and record breaker, Thorpe has set a fine role model and represent a strong Australian male figure in international press. Thorpe’s celebrity status as both world-renowned athlete and fashion icon has caused speculations that he might be homosexual. Despite the fact that Thorpe’s masculine physical appearance, the media still constantly portrays Thorpe’s sexual orientation based on his relationship with his male friends and his special interest in the fashion industry. Many considered Ian Thorpe’s media image does not fi.
.rit allows him to bounce back from any setback” as an indication of toughness within an Australian male trait.
From the information has been gathered in the three articles, Thorpe’s identity as an Australian male has not only being addressed from his physical appearance but most importantly stressed on his social activities and personal experiences, which to further reflected the Australian identity within Thorpe’s inner self rather than superficial action. In conclusion, the masculinity traits embedded within Australian identity among males has been refined and developed. It requires both physical appearance and social activities to truly fit into a mediated Australian identity. The stereotype of an Australian male identity has helped to define human condition and one’s cultural identity, which could lead an influential effect on the course of media analysis.
