Would Ancient People Be Considered Attractive by Modern Standards?

It’s true that beauty can be subjective and highly influenced by cultural contexts and historical periods. The image of beauty we often envision from ancient times is largely shaped by our understanding of health, hygiene, and societal norms. Would we find ancient people attractive today? This question is complex and multifaceted, as it involves not only their physical appearance but also the societal context in which they lived. In this exploration, we’ll delve into dental health, historical beauty standards, and cultural factors to better understand how ancient people may or may not be considered attractive in today’s world.

Physical Appearance and Dental Health

Physical Appearance: Beauty in ancient times was often influenced by physical health. From the ancient Europeans to indigenous peoples of the Americas, individuals who were strong, well-proportioned, and disease-free were often seen as attractive. These traits were often a result of a healthy lifestyle and the absence of chronic diseases.

Dental Health: Dental health was a significant factor in perceived beauty during ancient times. Skeletal remains have shown that large segments of the population suffered from tooth decay, leading to a highly unpleasant breath and often an unattractive appearance. In fact, it is often said that beauty may have been transitory, as a smile might reveal the numerous dental issues and the resulting unappealing breath.

The Example of Smallpox: The prevalence of smallpox was another reality of life in ancient times. Smallpox often left scars, which in many cultures were seen as a mark of beauty. In contrast, milkmaids, who were often exposed to cowpox, developed immunity to smallpox and were often considered beautiful. This is an example of how immunity from diseases could be part of the criteria for attractiveness. The discovery of vaccination by Edward Jenner with cowpox vaccine is a remarkable milestone in the understanding of immunity and beauty.

Dental Health and Inhalation of Particles

Dental health in ancient times is a crucial factor in determining attractiveness. The presence of tooth decay and resulting bad breath would have been a significant deterrent for modern sensibilities. Even a smile could reveal numerous untreated dental issues, leading to an unappealing and unattractive appearance. This aspect of dental health was particularly prevalent and widespread during the pre-antibiotic and pre-dental care era. The absence of proper dental care and the lack of understanding about oral hygiene meant that many ancient people suffered from dental issues that compromised their attractiveness.

Historical Beauty Standards

Indigenous Peoples: The indigenous peoples from Asia, the Americas, Europe, and Africa were typically seen as healthy, strong, and attractive. The absence of widespread diseases before the advent of agriculture meant that these individuals were often free from malnutrition and associated health issues. Their robust health was a significant aspect of their perceived attractiveness. However, the modern perspective from a post-industrial society is crucial in understanding how these individuals might be viewed today. Without the context of time and cultural changes, the image of these ancient peoples might seem just as attractive as their modern descendants.

Egyptians: Ancient Egyptians have often been depicted as some of the most beautiful people of their time. Artistic renditions, particularly those by South African artist Zaid NOUR, show that the Egyptians were indeed attractive. The use of intricate makeup and hairstyles was not only a form of personal adornment but also a reflection of cultural practices that enhanced their appearance. The renditions of ancient Egyptians, such as Per Ankh, provide a glimpse into the beauty of this ancient culture.

Cultural and Social Contexts

Cultural Shock: The shock of encountering individuals from different cultures can be a significant factor in determining attractiveness. The I Wish I Was a Trapper lyrics by Neil Young brilliantly capture the cultural shock and the romanticized notion of living with indigenous peoples like Pocahontas. The uninitiated might find it exciting to explore a new culture and the allure of experiencing a different way of life. However, the harsh realities of disease, modern hygiene, and cultural differences can often overshadow romantic fantasies.

Attractiveness and Disease: The presence of diseases and poor hygiene can significantly impact the perception of attractiveness. In ancient times, disease was rampant, and the lack of understanding about sanitation and hygiene led to widespread health issues. The contrast between the seemingly robust individuals of the past and the modern standards of cleanliness and health could create a stark difference in how ancient people are judged today.

Aesthetic Evolution Through Time

The perception of attractiveness has evolved significantly through time. While ancient people might have been considered attractive in their contexts, the distaste of modernity for dental issues and poor hygiene means that their attractiveness may be perceived differently today. The cultural and societal norms of the time played a crucial role in determining beauty standards. The modern appreciation for health, hygiene, and economic well-being means that the physical appearance of ancient people might not align with modern ideals of beauty.

Conclusion

While ancient people might have been considered attractive in their own time and culture, the standards of beauty have changed dramatically since then. The physical appearance of dental health, cultural differences, and the absence of modern hygiene can significantly impact how we perceive the attractiveness of individuals from ancient times. The beauty of the past is a complex interplay of historical, cultural, and modern perspectives that continue to influence our understanding of beauty today.