The Male Nude

In previous chapters it has been possible to map major forms of representation of masculinity in the nineteenth century. The mythical hero, the chivalric knight, the valiant soldier, the diligent labourer constitute some of the most significant and signifying ideographs in the history of art during the period. All of these images are marked by one common denominator - they are clothed or costumed and perforce conceal the male body. (Of course, some of this costuming, such as armour, may be a representation of the male body aggrandized and magnified.)