The Evolution of Masculinity and Fatherhood in God of War: Ragnarok

Authors

Jacob TF Wingo, Kennesaw State UniversityFollow

Name of Faculty Sponsor

Mackenzie Cato

Faculty Sponsor Email

mcato8@kennesaw.edu

Author Bio(s)

As a student of Kennesaw State University attending the Radow College of Humanities and Social Science, I have discovered a passion for communications research. In particular, my research has focused on themes of masculinity present in gaming media and communities. My goal is to, through research and comprehension of the narratives present within popular gaming mass media, develop a framework of understanding in order to promote healthier depictions of masculinity.

Publication Date

2-2025

Abstract

God of War: Ragnarok was released in 2023 to millions of sales and offers its players a unique look at the themes of masculinity and fatherhood set to a backdrop of mythical deities warring against one another. This game relies heavily on its narrative to convey its core themes of divergent forms of masculinity and the conflict between father and son due to differences in their masculine forms. In light of the game’s popularity and its nuanced representation of masculinity, this study uses textual analysis to explore research on masculinity, fatherhood, and gaming, focusing on the dominant narratives in God of War: Ragnarok. Findings suggest that while the game does in some ways support traditional hegemonic forms of masculinity, it also highlights the failings of these hegemonic norms and provides a framework for growth. Ultimately, the message Ragnarok conveys is one of evolution and growth away from harmful norms and towards positive, healthy, and constructive forms of masculinity and fatherhood.