The Jesus
Skinny stomach, thin arms, bony legs
In stark opposition to the round-bellied King Henry is the gaunt and emaciated figure many closely associate with Jesus on the cross. This is another popular body ideal that has known long periods of popularity in history, and it finds its roots in the close link between religion and food.
‘Whether it’s Brahman cooking the world into existence or Adam and Eve being driven away from paradise because of an apple, food has allowed religious peoples to relate to their gods, each other and the world,’ writes Corrie E Norman, Associate Director of Religious studies at the University of Wisconsin.
However, more often it’s abstinence from eating that has grabbed the headlines as a way to demonstrate devotion. Fasting is a popular practice that has been used for centuries in many religions as a form of sacrifice, self-discipline and gratitude.
In periods of particular religious fervour, such as the late Middle Ages and the wars of religion in Europe, the ‘thin for Christ’ look found many devotees. Christians often starved to pay tribute to their God and in the early 1800s harsh Presbyterian regimes went as far as adulterating what little food they ate in order to destroy any pleasure they would get from it.
In less overtly religious times, being skinny has also struck a chord, especially in the 1960s and 70s with the hippy movement and similar counter cultures. Celebrity singers such as Mick Jagger and David Bowie flaunted this body shape in front of thousands of spectators on stages across the world, and there has been much scientific evidence of its associated health benefits.
“Restricting your calorific intake in a modest manner seems to be linked to a longer life span,” adds Professor Thompson. “It’s been shown countless times in animals and a few times in humans, being quite thin for your size seems to be associated with greater longevity.”
SLIM PICKINGS