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Mansfield's Book of Manly Men

Mansfield's Book of Manly Men

An Utterly Invigorating Guide to Being Your Most Masculine Self
by Stephen Mansfield 2013 304 pages
4.24
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Key Takeaways

1. Manly Men Act: Deeds Define Manhood

Action is character.

Beyond Talk. True manhood isn't about discussing values or beliefs; it's about embodying them through action. The modern world is filled with talk, but genuine men distinguish themselves by their deeds, not their words. It's not enough to simply identify as a man; one must do the things that define manhood.

Rejecting Fake Masculinity. The author emphasizes that true manhood is not found in superficial displays of dominance or recklessness. It's not about excessive drinking, objectifying women, or shirking responsibility. These are counterfeits of masculinity, empty gestures that lack the substance of genuine character.

Bold, Caring, Principled. True manhood is characterized by boldness, care, principle, and passion. It's about being a force for good in the world, making a positive impact on family, community, and society. It's about acting in ways that reflect a noble definition of what it means to be a man.

2. Tend Your Territory: Own Your Responsibilities

Manly men tend their fields.

Defining Your Domain. Every man has a "territory," a sphere of responsibility that defines his role in the world. This territory can encompass family, work, community, or any other area where a man has a duty to protect, nurture, and cultivate. The key is to identify this territory and take full ownership of it.

Neglect is the Enemy. The opposite of tending one's territory is neglect, a passive abdication of responsibility. This can manifest in various ways, from neglecting one's family to shirking duties at work. A true man actively guards and cultivates his territory, ensuring its health and well-being.

Faithfulness Leads to Increase. By faithfully tending to the territory assigned to him, a man demonstrates his readiness for greater responsibility. This principle applies to all areas of life, from personal relationships to professional endeavors. Faithfulness in small things leads to increase in larger things.

3. Build Other Men: Manliness is Contagious

Manly men build manly men.

Culture of Manhood. True manhood isn't a solitary pursuit; it's a shared experience that's passed down from one generation to the next. Men learn what it means to be a man by observing and interacting with other men who embody those qualities. This creates a "contagious culture" of manliness that shapes and inspires future generations.

Learning by Example. Young men learn best by watching and emulating older men who live out the virtues of manhood. This can happen through formal mentorship or simply by being in the presence of men who embody courage, integrity, and responsibility. The key is to create an environment where young men can absorb these qualities through osmosis.

Creating a Model. All it takes for a contagious manly culture to form is for one genuine man to live out genuine manhood. It creates a model, something for other men to feed upon and pattern themselves after. It also gives other genuine men a vital connection that sustains and extends who they are.

4. Live for God's Glory: The Source of True Manhood

Manly men live to the glory of God.

Beyond Worldly Approval. True manhood cannot be sustained by seeking applause or approval from the world. These are fleeting and ultimately unsatisfying. Instead, a man must find his purpose and validation in living to the glory of God.

Inner Resources. Men are meant to carry such responsibility that they will descend into exhaustion and resentment if they do not have the inner resources that come from living in connection with God. This comes from being men to the glory of God.

God's Definition of Good. The author emphasizes the importance of aligning one's definition of "good" with God's standards, as revealed in Scripture and the teachings of Jesus. This provides a solid foundation for moral decision-making and prevents men from being swayed by cultural trends or personal preferences.

5. Honor: Reject Smallness, Embrace Nobility

And Yabetz was more honorable than his brothers.

Beyond Biology. Honor is not something inherited; it's a quality of spirit that's cultivated through conscious choices. It's about refusing to settle for the oppressive, the petty, and the unclean, and instead reaching for nobility, abundance, and strength.

Breaking the Curse. Like Jabez, men must actively reject the negative influences that seek to define them, whether it's a bitter family culture or a self-limiting belief. This requires a conscious decision to embrace a grander vision for one's life, a vision rooted in God's promises and one's own potential.

The Power of Heritage. Jabez's story highlights the importance of connecting with one's heritage and drawing strength from the positive examples of ancestors. By embracing the values and traditions of their tribe, men can find inspiration and guidance for their own lives.

6. Legacy: Transform Pain into Purpose

Solitary trees, if they grow at all, grow strong; and a boy deprived of a father’s care often develops, if he escapes the perils of youth, an independence and vigour of thought which may restore in after life the heavy loss of early days.

Finding Meaning in Suffering. Life is inevitably filled with pain and disappointment. The key is to find meaning in these experiences and use them as fuel for growth and purpose. Like Churchill, men must transform their wounds into sources of strength and resilience.

Rejecting Bitterness. It's easy to succumb to bitterness and resentment in the face of hardship. However, true men refuse to let their pain define them. Instead, they choose to see themselves as extensions of the good in their lives, focusing on continuity rather than antagonism.

Great Actions. The author urges men to take "great actions," to stop excusing themselves from duty and to make a difference where they were supposed to be inept. This is the ultimate way to answer the curses of the past and create a legacy of purpose and meaning.

7. Friendship: Forge Covenant Bonds with Men of Spirit

After David had finished talking with Saul, Jonathan became one in spirit with David, and he loved him as himself.

Beyond Casual Relationships. Modern men often find themselves surrounded by casual relationships but lacking deep, meaningful connections. True friendship requires more than shared interests or activities; it demands a covenant bond built on shared values, mutual support, and a commitment to each other's well-being.

Men of Spirit. Jonathan was drawn to the fire and the grit and the heart of David, to the spirit of God in his life, and loves him for these reasons first. So Jonathan initiated a friendship with covenant through sacrifice and heartfelt honor.

Mutual Defense and Support. All friendship is a form of covenant, a bond of mutual defense and support. And manly men keep their covenants.

8. Blessing: Connect to Heritage and Purpose

I came here to get your blessing, General.

Seeking Generational Connection. Men are designed to live with a sense of connection to their ancestors, to feel they are living out a commission from their fathers. This connection provides a sense of purpose and belonging that transcends the individual.

Restoring Lost Links. For men who have been deprived of a positive father figure, it's important to actively seek out other sources of blessing and connection to the past. This can involve connecting with elderly veterans, studying family history, or crafting personal liturgies.

Blessing Those Who Came Before. The author shares his personal experience of writing a letter to his father, thanking him for the good that had come to him through his life. This act of blessing, even in the absence of a traditional blessing from his father, helped him to connect with his heritage and find a sense of purpose.

9. Quest: Embrace Adventure and Risk

The very basic core of a man’s living spirit is his passion for adventure.

Beyond Domestication. Modern life often tames the adventurous spirit within men, leading to a sense of boredom and stagnation. To reclaim their vitality, men must actively seek out new experiences, challenge themselves physically and mentally, and embrace the unknown.

The Call of the Wild. The author uses the example of Jedediah Smith, a legendary explorer and mountain man, to illustrate the importance of embracing the wild and pushing oneself beyond the limits of comfort and security. Smith's life was filled with hardship and danger, but it was also marked by a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Radical Change. The author quotes Jon Krakauer, who urges men to make a radical change in their lifestyle and begin to boldly do things which they may previously never have thought of doing, or been too hesitant to attempt.

10. Integrity: Be Sound Through and Through

And Yabetz was more honorable than his brothers.

Beyond Honesty. Integrity is more than just being honest; it's about being sound and whole in every aspect of one's life. It's about aligning one's actions with one's values and living a life that is consistent and authentic.

Standing on Truth. Like Job, men of integrity refuse to compromise their values or distort the truth, even in the face of adversity. They stand firm in their convictions, knowing that their character is more important than worldly success or approval.

The Power of Self-Awareness. Job’s story also teaches the importance of self-awareness and the willingness to admit one’s own shortcomings. It is not a sign of weakness to acknowledge one’s flaws; it is a sign of strength and integrity.

11. Suffering: Battle Your Flaws to Achieve Greatness

Famous men are usually the product of an unhappy childhood.

The Crucible of Character. Many of the greatest men in history have overcome significant challenges and hardships. These experiences, while painful, often serve as a crucible for character, forging resilience, empathy, and a deeper understanding of the human condition.

Turning Wounds into Wisdom. The author uses the examples of Lincoln and Churchill to illustrate how men can transform their personal struggles into sources of strength and inspiration for others. By facing their demons head-on, they can emerge as more compassionate and effective leaders.

Declaring War. The question we all face is not whether or not we have defects. We do. Every one of us. The question is whether we are capable of envisioning a life defined by forces greater than the weight of our flaws.

12. Presence: Radiate Righteousness and Authority

We convince by our presence.

Beyond Physicality. True masculine authority is not about physical strength or dominance; it's about the moral and spiritual presence that a man carries into a room. This presence is a result of a life lived with integrity, purpose, and devotion to God.

Ministry by Presence. The author shares his experience of witnessing the power of presence in the lives of military chaplains, who were able to de-escalate tense situations simply by being present. This highlights the importance of men cultivating a moral and spiritual force field that radiates goodness and righteousness.

The Emanation of a Life. The author concludes by sharing his personal experience of spending time with John Wooden, a legendary basketball coach. He describes how Wooden radiated a sense of authority and tenderness that was palpable to everyone around him. This is the ultimate goal of manly living: to cultivate a presence that inspires and uplifts those in our sphere of influence.

Last updated:

FAQ

1. What is "Mansfield's Book of Manly Men" by Stephen Mansfield about?

  • A guide to authentic manhood: The book is an invigorating guide to being your most masculine self, focusing on the virtues, habits, disciplines, and actions that define true manhood.
  • Action over theory: Mansfield emphasizes that manhood is about doing, not just talking or theorizing, and provides practical steps for men to embody masculine virtues.
  • Historical and biblical examples: The book draws on stories from great men in history and the Bible to illustrate what it means to be a manly man.
  • A call to restoration: It addresses the crisis of masculinity in modern society and calls men to reclaim their roles as leaders, protectors, and men of honor.

2. Why should I read "Mansfield's Book of Manly Men"?

  • Practical blueprint for men: The book offers actionable advice for men seeking to grow in character, responsibility, and purpose.
  • Addresses modern masculinity crisis: It tackles the confusion and challenges men face today, providing clarity and direction.
  • Inspiration from great men: Readers gain insight from the lives of historical and biblical figures, making the lessons relatable and motivating.
  • Applicable to all men: Whether you had strong male role models or not, the book provides tools to develop manly virtues and build a legacy.

3. What are the key takeaways from "Mansfield's Book of Manly Men"?

  • Manhood is action: True masculinity is defined by what a man does, not just what he believes or says.
  • Responsibility for your field: Men are called to tend their "fields"—the people, places, and duties entrusted to them.
  • Manly men build manly men: Mentorship and brotherhood are essential; men must help other men grow.
  • Live for a higher purpose: The ultimate goal is to live to the glory of God, seeking strength, wisdom, and affirmation from Him.

4. What are Mansfield’s Four Manly Maxims and what do they mean?

  • Manly men do manly things: Masculinity is validated and expressed through action, not just intention or talk.
  • Manly men tend their fields: Every man has a sphere of responsibility—family, work, community—that he must actively care for and protect.
  • Manly men build manly men: Men are responsible for mentoring and strengthening other men, creating a culture of manhood.
  • Manly men live to the glory of God: True manhood is rooted in serving a higher purpose and drawing strength from God.

5. How does Stephen Mansfield define "manly men" in the book?

  • Men of action: Manly men are those who consistently act in ways that reflect honor, courage, and responsibility.
  • Virtue-driven: They embody virtues such as honesty, humility, compassion, integrity, and sacrifice.
  • Builders and protectors: Manly men take responsibility for their families, communities, and the next generation.
  • Spiritual foundation: Their actions and character are ultimately grounded in a relationship with God.

6. What specific advice does "Mansfield's Book of Manly Men" give for developing manly virtues?

  • Practice, not just theory: Mansfield urges men to develop virtues through repeated action, not just by reading or discussing them.
  • Self-examination and growth: The book includes reflective questions and prompts to help men identify areas for improvement.
  • Mentorship and brotherhood: Men are encouraged to seek out and build relationships with other men who model manly virtues.
  • Embrace challenges: Facing and overcoming adversity is presented as essential to building character and manliness.

7. How does the book address the crisis of masculinity in modern society?

  • Critique of cultural trends: Mansfield discusses how modern culture often mocks or misunderstands masculinity, leading to confusion and passivity among men.
  • Restoring positive models: The book calls for a return to traditional virtues and the celebration of authentic manhood.
  • Rejecting false masculinity: It distinguishes between true manhood and destructive behaviors often labeled as "manly" in popular culture.
  • Empowering men to act: The book provides a roadmap for men to reclaim their roles and responsibilities in family and society.

8. What role do historical and biblical figures play in "Mansfield's Book of Manly Men"?

  • Illustrative examples: The book uses stories of men like King David, Winston Churchill, Theodore Roosevelt, and others to demonstrate manly virtues in action.
  • Learning from the past: These figures serve as a "cloud of witnesses," offering lessons and inspiration for modern men.
  • Diverse backgrounds: The examples include both famous and lesser-known men, showing that manliness is accessible to all.
  • Practical application: Each story is followed by questions and prompts to help readers apply the lessons to their own lives.

9. What are some of the key concepts or disciplines covered in the book?

  • Honor and legacy: The importance of living honorably and leaving a positive legacy for future generations.
  • Friendship and brotherhood: Building deep, covenantal relationships with other men for support and accountability.
  • Blessing and heritage: Seeking and giving blessings, connecting with one's heritage, and passing on values.
  • Quest, humor, restoration, self-education, wildness, integrity, forgiveness, suffering, vision, humility, sacrifice, and presence: Each of these is explored as an essential aspect of manhood, with practical advice for cultivating them.

10. How does "Mansfield's Book of Manly Men" suggest men deal with failure, suffering, and restoration?

  • Embrace adversity: The book teaches that suffering and failure are inevitable and can be transformative if faced with courage and humility.
  • Learn and rebuild: Men are encouraged to acknowledge their mistakes, seek forgiveness, and work to restore what was lost.
  • Seek mentorship: Restoration often requires the support and guidance of wiser, more experienced men.
  • Focus on growth: The process of overcoming hardship is presented as a key path to becoming a better, more manly man.

11. What are some of the best quotes from "Mansfield's Book of Manly Men" and what do they mean?

  • "Manly men do manly things." – Action is the true measure of manhood; intentions alone are not enough.
  • "Manhood at the most basic level can be validated and expressed only in action." (George Gilder) – Masculinity is proven through deeds, not words.
  • "Having thus chosen our course, without guiles and with pure purpose, let us renew our trust in God, and go forward without fear and with manly hearts." (Abraham Lincoln) – True manhood involves courage, integrity, and faith.
  • "Far better it is to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs, even though checkered by failure, than to take rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy nor suffer too much, because they live in the gray twilight that knows not victory nor defeat." (Theodore Roosevelt) – Greatness comes from striving and risking, not from playing it safe.

12. How can readers apply the lessons from "Mansfield's Book of Manly Men" to their own lives?

  • Reflect and act: Use the questions and prompts at the end of each chapter to examine your life and take practical steps toward growth.
  • Build a brotherhood: Seek out other men who are committed to manly virtues and support each other in your journeys.
  • Tend your field: Take responsibility for your family, work, and community, striving to leave them better than you found them.
  • Live with purpose: Anchor your actions in a higher calling, seeking to glorify God and serve others through your manhood.

Review Summary

4.24 out of 5
Average of 1k+ ratings from Goodreads and Amazon.

Mansfield's Book of Manly Men receives mostly positive reviews, praised for its inspiring and challenging content on Biblical masculinity. Readers appreciate the historical examples, actionable advice, and focus on character traits like honor, integrity, and sacrifice. Many find it helpful for personal growth and mentoring younger men. Some criticize its Christian perspective or broad generalizations, but overall, reviewers recommend it as a guide for men seeking to embrace traditional masculine virtues in modern society.

Your rating:
4.59
32 ratings

About the Author

Stephen Mansfield is a New York Times bestselling author, speaker, and activist known for writing about religion and American culture. Born in Georgia, he grew up in Europe, later earning degrees in history, philosophy, and theology. Mansfield pastored churches, worked in relief efforts, and consulted politically before focusing on writing full-time. His books cover topics like faith, leadership, and historical figures, with notable works on George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Winston Churchill. Mansfield also founded consulting and literary management firms, and a foundation for global leadership development. He lives in Nashville with his wife Beverly, a songwriter and producer.

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