The Evolution of Beauty Standards: From Obesity to Thinness
The perception of beauty has undergone significant transformations throughout history. In the Middle Ages, obesity was often associated with wealth and delicacy, while today, the ideal of beauty has shifted towards thinness. Naomi Wolf's influential book, The Beauty Myth, highlights how modern women, despite gaining power and influence, often feel worse about their bodies than previous generations. This paradox raises questions about the societal pressures that dictate beauty standards and the impact on women's self-esteem.