Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society
History of Pubic Hair
Nov 26, 2024
In this engaging discussion, Professor Jill Burke, author of "How to Be a Renaissance Woman," dives into the surprising history of pubic hair. She reveals how grooming practices evolved from Ancient Greece to the Renaissance and explores the bizarre use of pubic wigs, or merkins. Jill also uncovers the dark links between hair removal and witch trials, alongside societal pressures on women's grooming choices. With insights into how beauty standards shifted over centuries, this conversation offers a fascinating look at the intersection of body hair and cultural norms.
44:46
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Quick takeaways
- Historical practices of pubic hair removal reveal cultural influences and norms that have shaped beauty standards across civilizations.
- The contemporary debate around pubic hair is evolving with Gen Z challenging traditional grooming norms, promoting individual agency in beauty choices.
Deep dives
The Historical Perspectives on Pubic Hair Removal
Pubic hair removal practices have a rich history that dates back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt and Greece, where it was influenced by cultural norms and hygiene practices. Contrary to the belief that such practices emerged in modern times, historical evidence indicates that the fashion for removing pubic hair has fluctuated throughout different eras. This trend not only reflects societal beauty standards but also reveals the interplay between cultural practices and personal grooming choices. The cultural exchanges in medieval Europe, particularly through Islamic influences, further contributed to the spread of hair removal methods and beauty rituals, making it a complex topic steeped in history.
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