(no subject)
So I was studiously reading for my 20th century Russian history class when I came across, not quite this photo, but one that is pretty much the same idea. This is Alexander III, second to last Tsar of Russia.
Then I read the captioin below.
"Alexander III in 1889. Known for his strength of conservative conviction, as well as physical strength, Alexander III was described as a 'mountain of stone.' He was the first Russian ruler since Peter the Great to grow a beard."
Now this is just an overview of Russian history, so the book is far from detailed. I wonder why they felt the detail about his beard was necessary. I'm all for beards as most of you know, but the authors really seem to be somehow equating facial hair with strength of spirit and body. I dunno, I thought it was kinda bizarre.
Then I read the captioin below.
"Alexander III in 1889. Known for his strength of conservative conviction, as well as physical strength, Alexander III was described as a 'mountain of stone.' He was the first Russian ruler since Peter the Great to grow a beard."
Now this is just an overview of Russian history, so the book is far from detailed. I wonder why they felt the detail about his beard was necessary. I'm all for beards as most of you know, but the authors really seem to be somehow equating facial hair with strength of spirit and body. I dunno, I thought it was kinda bizarre.