University of Virginia Library

Frat Myth Dying

By Gordon Peerman
Cavalier Daily Staff Writer

As myths surrounding the old
University crumble daily, the
fantasy of fraternity has perhaps
been the most closely scrutinized of
all. With increasing numbers of
first-year students questioning the
importance of fraternity life in the
total scheme of University living, the
signal for a thorough examination
has at last been sounded.

Start at the bottom pledgeship, that
self-sustaining ritual of
degradation. Appeals to some
strained, noble traditions aside, it
takes strenuous intellectual
gymnastics indeed to justify a
pledge system.

Pledges assume a subservient
position because of chronological
placement in the University, not
because of inherent inferiority, as
some might have you believe. The
joy of doing push-ups while
brothers cat their meals appeals to a
masochistic few.

Yet for those who take no thrill
in such activity, their objections are
summarily overruled by unwavering
adherence to 'the way it was.'
Admittedly, some houses have
undertaken enlightened reform in
their pledge programs, eliminating
such practices.

The question remains, what
constructive ends can any pledge
program accomplish: Why not
accept first-year students as equals
in every respect: the mystic aspects
of brotherhood require no
year-long period of indoctrination.

How much fraternities actually
contribute to the University
community is moot. The
stranglehold frats once held on
political offices, the consulting
system, and other positions of
student involvement has vastly
dissipated. Some houses have
become isolated sub-groups within
the community, interested merely
in their self-perpetuation.

What frats can offer to those
who choose to take part is a
pleasant eating club, with attendant
social benefits. Dispensing with the
"brotherhood" double talk, who
can deny that fraternities make big
weekends what they are?

In addition, as the University
grows in size and numbers, the
houses may help preserve the fast
disappearing spirit of community.
Finally, houses can provide a much
needed release from the pressure of
classes.

State troopers marching down
Mad Bowl last spring awoke many
frat men to the temper of the
times. Greek letters no longer
guarantee immunity to the long
arm of the law. One house has
already drawn the battle lines with
police this year. Hiding behind the
white columns no longer provides
an escape.

There are other threats -
inflation, rising food prices, and the
uncertainties of this year's rush.
One thing rush may provide is an
index of facts in terms of
economic potential, crucial to the
survival of many houses. Not to be
overlooked is the effect of
coeducation on house membership.

The word is out that frats have
taken a bad rap in the dorms. Rush
will have to offer more than beer
and a plastic smile to succeed this
year; otherwise the system will
become sterile, relegated to the
memories of old grads.