Of Beards and Men: The Revealing History of Facial Hair Read Online Free PDF Page B

centuries indicates that its symbolism was truly powerful. It staked out an ideal middle ground on the spectrum of shaving that elegantly expressed the position of the soldier—subject to the discipline of his superiors (shaved chin and cheeks), yet also reliant on his own physical and moral fortitude (hairy upper lip). In modern civilian life, this same compromise has made mustaches more socially acceptable than beards.
    The shape of beard history helps us gain perspective on our own times, first by alerting us to the social power of facial hair. As in the past, the condition of our own times is visible on men’s faces. What is immediately apparent is an increased variety and experimentation indicative of an ongoing renegotiation of what is expected of men, and of what men wish for themselves. Much of this communication is nonverbal or even subconscious, but there are a wide variety of issues atplay, including personal autonomy, social regulation, religious identity, gender roles, and sexual attraction. We live in interesting times.
    This book cannot hope to offer a complete evaluation of the subtle, complex language of hair. There is much more to be said and done, particularly in the consideration of hair on the head and body. More discoveries are yet to be made as the historical hair code is deciphered.