Introduction to Physignomy, It's Origin and Importance.

PHYSIOGNOMY OR FACE READING

 INTRODUCTION

In its most general sense, Physiognomy signifies a knowledge of nature; but more particularly of the forms of things-- the configuration of natural objects, whether animate or inanimate. 

As restricted in its application to man, it may be defined as a knowledge of the relation between the external and the internal, and of the signs through which the character of the mind is indicated by the developments of the body. 

Popular usage limits the signification of the term still more, and makes it mean simply, the art of reading character by means of its signs in the face. 

A more full and exact definition of the word, will be found in the upcoming blogs. 

ORIGIN 

Notions of the relationship between an individual's outward appearance and inner character are historically ancient, and occasionally appear in early Greek poetry. Siddhars from ancient India are also known to have defined samudrika lakshanam that identifies personal characteristics with body features. Chinese physiognomy or face reading (mianxiang) reaches back at least to the Northern Song Period. The first indications of a developed physiognomic theory appear in fifth century BC Athens, with the works of Zopyrus(who was featured in a dialogue by Phaedo of Elis), who was said to be an expert in the art. By the fourth century BC, the philosopher Aristotle made frequent reference to theory and literature concerning the relationship of appearance to character.

The popularity of physiognomy grew throughout the first quarter of the 18th century and into the 19th century. It was discussed seriously by academics, who believed in its potential. Many European novelists used physiognomy in the descriptions of their characters^, notably Balzac, Chaucer and portrait artists, such as Joseph Ducreux. A host of 19th-century English authors were influenced by the idea, notably evident in the detailed physiognomic descriptions of characters in the novels of Charles Dickens,Thomas Hardy, and Charllote Brote. 

Phrenology, also considered a form of physiognomy, was created around 1800 by German physician Franz Joseph Gall and Johann Spurzheim, and was widely popular in the 19th century in Europe and the United States.

 

IMPORTANCE 

Knowing the Theory of Physiognomy can help people from various fields. its something that comes in help to anybody at all. people in sales might want to know how to convince their customer and whether to go straight away to the benefits of the product or start from the introduction. well that's something you might be able to decide on before speaking by just giving a look at the facial features of the customer. If you're into jobs and want your boss to increase your salary, knowing how to approach him could come of great help. The study of Physiognomy in psychology and criminology is very prevalent, as well as in medicinal fields; especially in Chinese medicine.

You'll understand the uses of it a little more clearly as we get into face reading in the upcoming blogs.