Changes in the Ideal Body Type

Abstract

The human body comes in all shapes and sizes. Each different body shape allows onlookers to evaluate at least some aspects of the subject’s lifestyle and priorities. All eras choose a body type that they exalt above the rest. The goal of this research is to evaluate the considered ideal body type from three different eras in order to better understand these time periods and their values. A compilation of books and journal articles were used from the Cunningham Memorial Library Database, the library itself, and other personal libraries to better understand this topic. The most pertinent question was what Sparta, Medieval Europe, and the 1920’s in the United States considered to be the ideal body type. From here a comparison between the time periods and their values was needed to understand why these ideal body styles differ so greatly. Lastly, a record of events that happened during each reign was needed so understand the external factors acting upon the choosing of the body styles. These findings can be used to deeper understand history, sociology, body image, and reproduction.