A Cultural History of Hair in the Middle Ages

The Middle Ages were a time of great innovation, artistic vigor, and cultural richness, and hair was a key marker of this dynamism and sophistication. This volume examines how hairstyles and their representations developed between AD 800 and AD 1450, revealing them as a potent cultural symbol of gender, age, sexuality, health, class, and race. Illustrated with approximately 80 images, it brings together leading scholars to present an overview of the period.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 25 August 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The Middle Ages were a period of remarkable innovation, artistic vitality, and cultural richness, characterized by a keen appreciation for appearances and a fascination with hair as a marker of dynamism and sophistication. During this vibrant era, hair assumed an increasingly central role in religious iconography, from the depiction of Mary Magdalen to the Virgin Mary. Vernacular poets adorned their verses with detailed descriptions of hairstyles, ranging from humble to elaborate, while merchants imported the finest hair products from far-off lands.

In order to explore the intricate development of hairstyles and their representations between AD 800 and AD 1450, this volume draws upon a wealth of visual, textual, and object sources. It examines how hairstyles evolved, often reaching a level of dazzling complexity, and how they were used to convey a wide range of cultural symbols, including gender, age, sexuality, health, class, and race.

The book is accompanied by approximately 80 images, which provide a visual representation of the various hairstyles and their cultural significance. These images are accompanied by essays by leading scholars who offer an overview of the period, exploring topics such as politics, science, religion, fashion, beauty, the visual arts, and popular culture.

By examining the cultural history of hair in the Middle Ages, this volume provides a unique insight into the complex social, political, and artistic dynamics of the period. It sheds light on the ways in which hairstyles were used to express identity, power, and status, and how they were influenced by religious beliefs, cultural norms, and fashion trends. It also highlights the role that hair played in shaping public perception and popular culture, from the use of hair accessories to the development of hairstyles in literature and art.

In conclusion, A Cultural History of Hair in the Middle Ages is a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the role of hair in medieval society. It offers a rich and detailed account of the development of hairstyles and their representations, and provides a valuable insight into the cultural, social, and artistic dynamics of the period. By examining the hair as a cultural symbol, this volume contributes to our understanding of the Middle Ages and its enduring legacy.

Weight: 512g
Dimension: 244 x 170 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350285484