The idea that women must have a certain physical appearance to be considered beautiful is ingrained in most cultures worldwide. This belief has been perpetuated through various forms of media and societal norms. But what exactly are these ideas based on? And why do they persist?
To answer these questions, it's essential to understand the cultural narratives that inform traditional beauty standards. One such narrative is the concept of feminine subordination - the idea that women exist primarily for the pleasure and fulfillment of men. This mindset can be traced back to patriarchal societies where women were treated as property and had limited rights and opportunities outside the home. As a result, their value was often tied to how well they could meet male expectations regarding domestic chores and childbearing.
This mentality continues to influence modern society in many ways. Women are still expected to conform to gender roles and fit into rigid boxes, with little room for individuality or autonomy. The pressure to look attractive, which often involves unrealistic body types and behaviors, is just one example of this expectation. It creates an environment where women feel constantly judged and evaluated by others based on their appearance rather than who they truly are as individuals.
Another cultural narrative contributing to beauty ideals is the myth of objectivity. Many people believe that beauty is universal and objective, meaning it exists independently of culture or context.
This is not always true. What is deemed attractive varies greatly across time and place, depending on factors like race, class, religion, geography, etc. Beauty standards have also changed over time, reflecting shifting social attitudes and values.
During the Victorian era, voluptuous figures were considered desirable, while today thinness is prized. In some cultures, darker skin tones or fuller bodies are seen as more appealing.
Queer interventions offer a way to challenge these rigid beauty standards. By subverting traditional norms and celebrating diversity, queer artists and activists can disrupt the status quo. Queer fashion shows, drag performances, and art exhibitions promote self-expression and embrace all forms of beauty. They encourage people to define themselves outside of narrow definitions imposed by society.
Beauty standards are rooted in harmful cultural narratives that perpetuate patriarchal power structures and objectify women. To break free from these constraints, we must recognize how deeply ingrained they are and challenge them through alternative perspectives.
What cultural narratives underpin rigid beauty standards, and how can queer interventions challenge them?
Rigid beauty standards are deeply rooted in the cultural myths of patriarchal heteronormative structures, which dictates that women should conform to certain physical attributes such as being thin, fair-skinned, having long hair and large breasts, while men are expected to be tall, muscular and have a full head of hair (Fox & Ward, 2014).