As we continue through the 21st century it becomes clear how much written texts have influenced society and our gender roles. Our gender refers to social and cultural differences that are built upon our sexual difference. They may not be exactly the same as our grandparents, as we have evolved slightly since the Stone Age, but similarities of those stereotypes are still shining through.
             They set a base line and a very solid grounding in assigning gender. 'What are Little Boys Made Of?' Is it an innocent nursery rhythm to the young naive children singing it? What their parents don't realise is that this is when they are most vulnerable and expectations are set, by parents and peers.
             That's what little boys are made of.'
             I can't speak for you but I believe that this is where society got the old saying 'boys will be boys.' It is giving boys an excuse to act up at the same time reinforcing the gender stereotypes of boys being rough and tough.
             That's what little girls are made of.'
             Well if boys can play in the mud where do the women belong, in the kitchen I suppose. Most children will read this poem and take something from it away with them. It may be that girls and women should be sweet or that boy will naturally be rough, what ever it is they have started reading into gender and gender expectations. You tell me, rough vs. gentle, active vs. passive and outside vs. inside, most people can categorize these into male and female gender roles that society will accept as normal. Although what about those who challenge the gender stereotypes. 'As Boys to Wanton Flies' and in the text 'Raymond's Run' both main characters decide to challenge the gender stereotypes forced upon them by family and friends. Lionel in 'As Boys to Wanton Flies' is terr
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