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“I had
admired the perfect forms of my cottagers—their grace, beauty, and delicate
complexions: but how was I terrified when I viewed myself in a transparent
pool! At first I stared back, unable to believe that it was indeed I who was
reflected in the mirror; and when I became fully convinced that I was in
reality the monster that I am, I was filled with the bitterest sensations of
despondence and mortification” (102).
Has steps
been taken in today’s society to diffuse the mindset that appearances matter (more than other values)? How? Why does physical appearance play such an important role in relationships?
Lastly, is the idea of an “acceptable” physical appearance intrinsic? Discuss your opinions, observations, and so on!
Physical acceptance is innate but it is only kindled and influenced by society. One may see something that he or she deem as beautiful and judge themselves accordingly. For example when the monster sees Felix and Agatha and later views himself "as the monster that [he] is". Although society has made small steps to turn away from this mindset, others are more heavily driven towards the media's idea of beauty which adversely overshadows the encouragement. Society then provides the means of becoming what they believe to be appealing. When one can not internally accept his or her physical appearance, the insecurities developed play a big role in their relationships. Its negative effect develops walls of distrust and instability which can lead the end of the relationships. (and yes I know I answered the questions out of order)
ReplyDeleteIf anything, society's mindset that appearance matters has gotten worse. This is evident in the media (billboards, magazines, commercials, TV shows). Physical appearance plays such an important role in relationships because it is recognized faster than any other quality. One can just been be seen to be judged off appearance however the judging of one's personality and character takes longer. In chapter twelve, the monster states: "I imagined they would be disgusted, until, by my gentle demeanor and conciliating words, I should first win their favour, and afterwards their love" (Shelley 103). The monster knew the cottagers would first be dismayed by his hideous appearance, but hoped they would eventually move past it and love him for his personality. However this was not the case. Immediately upon seeing the monster, the cottagers screamed in horror and kicked him out of the house. The monster's lack of external beauty prevented him from connecting with any humans.
ReplyDeleteWow! There is so much that could be said about how society has developed a mindset that appearance matters more than values. It is obvious with all of the twitter, instagram, and other social networks we use that appearance is valued more than someone's own intellectual values. One is simply valued and idolized because of how they look rather than what goals they have in life for their future. Physical appearance plays such a great role in relationships because of people on the outside looking in. Because our society is so judgemental we take others opinions about our companions looks into consideration rather than what will make us truly happy. Which furthers the explanation of what we think an acceptable physical appearance is.
ReplyDelete