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Hair in the Middle Ages: A Cultural History

Vladimir Nabokov

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Published in A Cultural History Of Hair In The Middle Ages (The Cultural Histories Series)

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A Cultural History of Hair in the Middle Ages (The Cultural Histories Series)

by Roberta Milliken

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	22145 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	418 pages

Hair has always been a powerful symbol, and in the Middle Ages it was no different. It was believed to be a source of strength and virility, and it was often used to express social status and identity. This book explores the cultural history of hair in the Middle Ages, from its religious and medical significance to its role in fashion and identity.

Hair and Religion

In the Middle Ages, hair was often seen as a symbol of holiness. This was especially true for women, who were expected to cover their hair in public. In fact, it was considered a sin for a woman to show her hair in public. This belief was based on the biblical story of Samson, whose strength was said to be in his hair. When his hair was cut off, he lost his strength.

Hair was also seen as a symbol of purity and innocence. This is why it was often cut off as a sign of repentance or mourning. For example, nuns and monks often shaved their heads as a sign of their dedication to God.

Hair and Medicine

In the Middle Ages, hair was also believed to have medicinal properties. It was used to treat a variety of illnesses, including headaches, toothaches, and skin diseases. Hair was also used to make wigs and other hairpieces, which were believed to have therapeutic benefits.

One of the most common uses of hair in medicine was to treat baldness. Baldness was seen as a sign of weakness and disease, and it was often treated with hair transplants. Hair transplants were performed by taking hair from the back of the head and transplanting it to the bald area.

Hair and Fashion

In the Middle Ages, hair was also an important part of fashion. Men and women wore their hair in a variety of styles, depending on their social status and personal preferences. For example, wealthy men often wore their hair long and flowing, while peasants wore their hair short and cropped.

Women's hair was often braided or plaited, and it was often decorated with ribbons, beads, and other ornaments. Married women often wore their hair covered, while unmarried women often wore their hair uncovered.

Hair and Identity

In the Middle Ages, hair was also an important part of identity. It was used to express social status, religious beliefs, and personal preferences. For example, Jews and Muslims were often required to wear their hair in a certain way, and different occupations had their own hair styles.

Hair was also used to express personal identity. For example, people who were in mourning often wore their hair unkempt, while people who were celebrating often wore their hair in elaborate styles.

Hair has always been a powerful symbol, and in the Middle Ages it was no different. This book has explored the cultural history of hair in the Middle Ages, from its religious and medical significance to its role in fashion and identity. Hair was a complex and multifaceted symbol in the Middle Ages, and it played an important role in the lives of medieval people.

A Cultural History of Hair in the Middle Ages (The Cultural Histories Series)

by Roberta Milliken

5 out of 5