The role of Rifian virility in the shaping of Spanish masculinity during Spain's colonial wars in the Rif (1900-1927): From admiration to colonial hierarchy

This article examines Spanish colonial discourse on Morocco during the Rif War from the perspective of gender. It focuses on the most reactionary sections of the Army of Africa, which later revolted against the Second Spanish Republic. The image of the Rifian man in this colonial setting is analysed...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Autor: Torres, Gemma
Tipo de recurso: artículo
Estado:Versión aceptada para publicación
Fecha de publicación:2023
País:España
Institución:Universidad de Barcelona
Repositorio:Dipòsit Digital de la UB
OAI Identifier:oai:dnet:ubarcelona__::80a271f5af29021c4d123451f3462fb3
Acceso en línea:https://hdl.handle.net/2445/228945
Access Level:acceso abierto
Palabra clave:Masculinitat
Guerra del Rif, 1921-1926
Masculinity
Rif Revolt, 1921-1926
Descripción
Sumario:This article examines Spanish colonial discourse on Morocco during the Rif War from the perspective of gender. It focuses on the most reactionary sections of the Army of Africa, which later revolted against the Second Spanish Republic. The image of the Rifian man in this colonial setting is analysed as playing a decisive role in the shaping of Spanish masculinity, which was built through dialogue with this representation of the other’s manhood. This male archetype was especially relevant in the culture of the Africanist soldiers who would later have such a huge impact on the history of Spain. This article reflects on the complexities and ambiguities of the colonial relationship and aims to contribute to the discussion on the exceptionality of Spanish colonialism as compared with other European empires.