When the proverb harms: sociocultural-discourse analysis of toxic masculinity in selected Setswana proverbs

Setswana proverbs embody a gendered connotation that shapes and justifies sociocultural perceptions of masculinity. Nonetheless, the distinctive meaning of certain proverbs potentially harms the well-being of men. Recent research argues that certain proverbs perpetuate patriarchal ideologies that uphold men and oppress women. However, there remains a significant gap in scholarship around proverbs as potentially toxic to men themselves. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore how selected Setswana proverbs potentially perpetuate toxic masculinity, oppression and stereotypes against men, further implicating their mental health in contemporary society. Using a qualitative discourse analysis, seven purposively selected Setswana proverbs were analysed in terms of literal and interpretive meaning. Through the lens of sociocultural theory, this article demonstrates that sociocultural teachings embedded in proverbs shape the way men assert and validate masculinity. The findings reveal that certain proverbs encourage emotionlessness, promiscuity, disregard for personal safety and wealth acquisition as qualities of masculinity that are potentially toxic to men’s mental health. The re-imagination of certain proverbs and the creation of new proverbs that are aligned to evolving contemporary realities and gender dynamics, while still maintaining harmless masculinity, are recommended.