Men and Their Mission

This book engages with masculinity in modern and contemporary Buddhism in Sri Lanka (1850-today) through the lens of exemplary male religious leaders, politicians and the culture of boys' education since the late nineteenth century. Through mixed methods, archival and original historical source material such as newspapers, school archives, oral history and ethnography, this book analyses the dynamic power structures of hegemonic masculinity within this hegemonic religious context of Buddhist nationalism in Sri Lanka. The book adds to existing scholarship through a new perspective and approach as well as new material and new connections drawn between that material. It is a perfect read for scholars working in the intersection of gender, religion and power.

Chapter 1. Introduction. - Chapter 2. The Ideal Buddhist Monk. - Chapter 3. Olcott Schools and Colonial Hangovers. - Chapter 4. Charisma, Sexuality, Race. - Chapter 5. The Power of Kinship and Masculinity. - Chapter 6. Conclusion.