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The Rest Is History
492. The War on Beards: From Peter the Great to John Lennon (Part 2)
Sep 9, 2024
Explore the fascinating relationship between beards and societal norms throughout history. From the bearded witches of Macbeth to Peter the Great's tax on facial hair, the discussion spans the cultural significance of grooming practices. Discover how the Victorian beard became a symbol of masculinity and status with figures like W. G. Grace, and how perceptions shifted from virility to cleanliness in the early 20th century. Delve into humorous anecdotes about bearded identities and envision future female icons in history.
53:41
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Quick takeaways
- The podcast highlights how perceptions of beards have evolved, reflecting shifting societal attitudes towards masculinity and cleanliness throughout history.
- It discusses the impact of the Crimean War on beard popularity, linking military status to the cultural embrace of facial hair during the Victorian era.
Deep dives
The Quirky History of Beards
The discussion begins with notable views on beards, referencing Lord Raglan's opinions during the Crimean War, reflecting a broader cultural sentiment towards facial hair. The episode emphasizes the historical context of beards, arguing that while some figures may have been portrayed with extreme views, these sentiments often reveal societal attitudes towards masculinity and cleanliness. The podcast further explores how beards were seen as a representation of various attributes such as virility and manliness throughout different historical periods. The introduction of characters like George MacDonald Fraser's Flashman serves as a whimsical bridge to discussing how such characters have shaped the popular perception of facial hair.
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Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode