Masculinity and male homosexuality: new boundaries and new limits - Male homosexuality has always been connected with femininity. The main aim of this article is to analyse in which way some heterosexual stereotypes have formed again in homosexual culture, with a strong influence on gay male gender role. Masculinity will be analysed to show how some of its interpretations in Western culture influenced some popular representations of male homosexuality. Various models in performing masculinity will be described, considering historical and aetiological aspects. Particular attention will be given to the bear model, described both as a social construction and as an ideal of masculinity. Key words: masculinity, male homosexuality, heteronormativity, sexual stereotypes.