In today’s world, the definition of beauty varies from person to person and culture to culture. But have you ever wondered what was considered beautiful in ancient times? Let’s take a journey through history and explore the beauty standards of different civilizations.
Ancient Egypt
In ancient Egypt, beauty was associated with divinity. Women were considered more desirable if they had a slender body, symmetrical facial features, and a straight nose.
They used makeup made of minerals and plant extracts to enhance their eyes, lips, and cheeks. The use of eyeliner was particularly popular among women as it was believed to protect their eyes from evil spirits.
Ancient Greece
The Greeks had a deep appreciation for physical beauty and believed that it reflected inner goodness. Both men and women were expected to have athletic bodies with well-defined muscles.
Women with fair skin, high foreheads, and long hair were considered beautiful. On the other hand, men with thick beards and broad shoulders were seen as attractive.
Ancient Rome
In ancient Rome, beauty was closely linked with power and social status. Women wore makeup made of lead and chalk to lighten their skin tone as it was believed that lighter skin indicated higher social status.
They also used perfumes made of flowers to enhance their fragrance. Men with muscular bodies and sharp features were considered handsome.
Ancient China
In ancient China, pale skin was considered a sign of nobility as it indicated that one did not need to work in the fields under the sun. Women would use makeup made of rice powder to create a pale complexion while men preferred long hair tied in topknots.
Ancient India
In ancient India, beauty was associated with spirituality and inner peace. Women were expected to have long hair, full lips, and almond-shaped eyes while men were judged by their strength and courage. The use of henna to decorate the hands and feet was popular among women.
Conclusion
As we can see, beauty standards have evolved over time and vary greatly across cultures. While some aspects of ancient beauty standards may seem outdated or even harmful today, they provide us with a glimpse into the values and beliefs of our ancestors. Ultimately, what is considered beautiful is subjective and depends on individual preferences and cultural contexts.