Mashers

In historical context, 'mashers' refers to men who persistently, and often overtly, pursued romantic or sexual relationships with women, frequently employing unwanted attention, flirtation, or advances. The term implied a lack of respect for the women's wishes and boundaries, bordering on the predatory. This behavior was considered socially unacceptable, often associated with a sense of entitlement, and was more prevalent in the Victorian and Edwardian eras. The connotation often included an element of self-absorption, a desire for conquest, and an disregard for the women's comfort or consent. The term highlights a societal understanding of unwelcome attention.

Mashers meaning with examples

• In the Victorian era, the newspapers often described the 'mashers' who frequented dance halls, pursuing women relentlessly and facing public disapproval. These men were viewed as nuisances, their relentless advances a source of discomfort. This unwelcome attention made attending social gatherings difficult for many women, as the 'mashers' often ignored verbal and non-verbal cues regarding their advances. The societal pressure created an atmosphere of potential intimidation.
• The novel vividly portrayed the 'mashers' who stalked the parks, their flattering words and unwanted attentions designed to lure unsuspecting ladies. Society saw them as a menace, and many young women, especially from upper classes, were educated in methods to rebuff such 'mashers'. The dangers posed by 'mashers' were a common topic in women's etiquette manuals during the late 1800s and early 1900s. It highlighted the vulnerability in certain social contexts.
• The scandalous headlines focused on a prominent 'masher' whose relentless pursuit of a married woman led to a public outcry. Despite the public pressure, and the woman's frequent rejection of his advances, he continued to pursue her, exhibiting a level of obsession that shocked society. This behavior, viewed as harassment, further fueled public condemnation and the widespread vilification of his actions by the local press.
• During the opera season, 'mashers' swarmed the theatre lobbies, their gaze sweeping over the elegantly dressed women in attendance, each hoping to entice the attention of a social climber. Society frowned upon such blatant attempts to garner romantic relationships. For many women, the risk of encountering unwanted attention from the 'mashers' meant avoiding popular establishments, even if they wished to engage in them. The concept was inherently sexist.
• The satirical play caricatured the 'mashers' of the period, highlighting their inflated egos and lack of sensitivity towards the objects of their affections. The humor played on the absurdity of their persistence, emphasizing how women were often objectified as targets. Such plays often drew large crowds, and were used to publicly shame these behaviours. This further encouraged and pushed societal change around these behaviours.