Toxic masculinity as always existed, and its origins seem to be the patriarchy itself. The system that men created in order to benefit from also became the system that caused them to hide emotion, overwork themselves, and hold themselves to a much too high standard of breadwinner and stronghold.  In the literature we studied, we found patterns of men using this toxic masculinity to oppress those around them, primarily women. In relationships, careers, and the general society, men have consistently used this behavior, which now can be identified as toxic masculinity, to form and fuel the patriarchy.

We see this toxic masculinity play out in Mr. Rochester from Jane Eyre, in the way he manipulates the women in his life and uses his power, which comes largely from his money, to enforce unbalanced gender roles.

In Ruth Hall, Hyacinth perpetuated toxic masculinity by using his power and social standing todegrade and suppress his sister’s fame and success. 

While it can be easy to assume that toxic masculinity is a thing of the 19th century, there are still remnants of this behavior and mindset today.