Cambridge, UK – Scholars at the University of Cambridge are shedding light on the origins of the idea that true beauty lies within and its impact on the control of women’s dress. According to a recent talk at the university, influential male writers in the third century used this Christian concept to manipulate and regulate how women presented themselves.
Alexandra Zhirnova, a Cambridge scholar, highlighted the misogynistic views held by medieval Christian men towards women’s appearance as part of her research. She explained that as Christianity became integrated into patriarchal societies during the Middle Ages, the idea of focusing on inner beauty was twisted to exert social control over women.
Zhirnova’s PhD thesis draws attention to the attitudes of prominent early church figures like Saint Jerome, Saint Ambrose, and Saint Augustine. They denounced women who wore makeup and fashionable clothing as immoral, while praising those who embraced simplicity. These writers often equated elaborately adorned women with prostitutes, suggesting that beauty enhancements were deceptive and morally corrupt.
The perception of women’s appearance clashed with Roman ideals, where the use of makeup, jewelry, and intricate hairstyles was considered typical for upper-class women. However, these behaviors were seen as contradictory to Christian values by medieval Christian men.
Zhirnova argues that the fear expressed by early Christian writers stemmed from the belief that women’s outward beauty could awaken men’s lust and give them power over them. By controlling women’s appearances, they sought to maintain the established male-dominated order.
The strict regulations imposed on women’s style were also invoked to reinforce societal norms of chastity and modesty. Women who deviated from these expectations were seen as untrustworthy and sexually promiscuous.
The influence of these early Christian ideas extends to the present day, shaping our perception of beauty, clothing, and the judgment of women. Zhirnova points to the deep-rooted roots of rape culture in these ancient teachings, noting that stories praising holy women who rejected beautification often implied negative judgment towards those who did not conform.
As Zhirnova concludes her talk, she emphasizes the need to critically examine the historical origins of societal prejudices against women’s appearance. By understanding how these ideas originated, we can better address and challenge the deep-seated biases that persist today.
This research provides valuable insights into the historical context of the ongoing struggle for gender equality and illuminates the complex dynamics that have shaped societal views on beauty and women’s autonomy. It underscores the importance of continuing to question and challenge deeply ingrained biases to foster a more inclusive and equal society.