Bust-Down Books

From Wiseguys to Wise Men by Fred L. Gardaphé

Name: From Wiseguys to Wise Men by Fred L. Gardaphé
Brand: Bust-Down Books
SKU: 0415946484
Price: 14.99 USD
Availability: InStock

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From Wiseguys to Wise Men: The Gangster and Italian American Masculinities

By Fred Gardaphé

A provocative cultural study of the gangster as a symbol of masculinity, ethnicity, and American identity. In this groundbreaking work, literary scholar Fred Gardaphé examines how the gangster figure has evolved in American literature, film, and popular culture—especially through the lens of Italian American experience.

Book Synopsis

As real-life gangsters fade into history, their mythic counterparts continue to shape American masculinity. Gardaphé explores the gangster as a modern-day trickster—an outsider who challenges norms and exposes contradictions in American ideals. Through close readings of works by Mario Puzo, Martin Scorsese, Gay Talese, and others, he reveals how Italian American artists have used the gangster to critique race, gender, and assimilation. This is a compelling narrative of how an immigrant group reclaims a cultural stereotype and transforms it into a complex symbol of identity and resistance.

Perfect For

Readers of cultural studies, gender theory, and ethnic identity
Fans of The Godfather, Goodfellas, and The Sopranos
Students of American literature, film, and masculinity studies
Anyone interested in how pop culture shapes and reflects social values

Praise & Recognition

“Gardaphé’s ability to blend scholarly insight with pop culture savvy elevates this book beyond the academic.”
—Publishers Weekly

“A brilliant deconstruction of the gangster mythos and its role in shaping American masculinity.”
—Kirkus Reviews

About the Author

Fred Gardaphé is Distinguished Professor of Italian American Studies at Queens College, CUNY. A leading voice in Italian American cultural criticism, he is the author of several books including Italian Signs, American Streets and Leaving Little Italy.