Venus with Biceps
A Pictorial History of Muscular Women
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- $27.99
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- $27.99
Publisher Description
Rare historical photographs of strong muscular women from the late-19th to mid-20th centuries, often portrayed unrealistically as sexy dominatrices or sideshow freaks. Includes text by author Chapman and an introduction by Patricia Vertinsky, a professor specializing in gender and sport.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Chapman (American Hunks: The Muscular Male Body in Popular Culture 1860-1970) and Vertinsky (Physical Culture, Power, and the Body) collaborate for a fascinating portrayal of the world of female bodybuilding. For the last century, serious weight training by women has been alternately applauded and decried (mostly decried). Women weightlifters faced accusations of masculinity, lesbianism, and general freakishness; indeed the first home they found was in circuses and vaudeville acts. This pictorial history highlights the shifting attitudes toward these women and offers insights into the changing attitudes about body image. The authors have created an excellent collection of thoughtfully-curated photos and essays; though some could have gone deeper, the result is an intriguing look at a little regarded period in sports history. Photos.
