The Philosophy of Beards

This eccentric Victorian book argues a strong case for the universal wearing of a beard---that essential symbol of manly distinction since ancient times. Thomas S. Gowing contrasts the vigour and daring of bearded men through history with the undeniable effeminacy of the clean-shaven. He reminds the modern man that ＂ladies, by their very nature, like everything manly,＂ and cannot fail to be charmed by a ＂fine flow of curling comeliness.＂ Gowing’s book is now republished for the first time since 1854, accompanied by illustrations of impressive beards from history