Illness & Illustration: The Beauty Myths of Tuberculosis & Vampires

The Infectious Science Podcast

Could tuberculosis truly shape our understanding of beauty? Prepare to unravel the eerie yet intriguing connection between this historical disease and the evolution of beauty standards across centuries. With Christina and Camille at the helm, we guide you through the pale, waif-like ideals of the 17th and 18th centuries, deeply entwined with TB’s impact. Drawing from Carolyn Day’s insightful work “Consumptive Chic,” we discuss how TB's haunting image inspired Victorian fashion and even shaped modern grooming habits, particularly influencing the preference for clean-shaven looks among men.
Explore the curious fusion of fashion, health, and societal perceptions as we dissect how TB influenced women's fashion choices. From the pointed corsets and makeup that mimicked the consumptive look, to the cultural shifts driven by food accessibility and public health initiatives, we reveal how a medical condition could transform clothing norms. Our conversation even takes a lighthearted turn, contemplating how TB sparked an enduring fascination with women’s shoes, leaving a lasting legacy on shopping habits.
Finally, we venture into the romanticized allure of TB during the 18th and 19th centuries, where the disease was bizarrely perceived as a beauty enhancer. Even Lord Byron used it in his courting repertoire! As we compare photographic studies of TB patients to healthy individuals, we set the stage for an upcoming discussion on the connection between vampire lore and the disease porphyria. Join us as we invite you to share your thoughts and engage with our community, preparing for more fascinating episodes that blend history, culture, and science.

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챕터

1. Illness & Illustration: The Beauty Myths of Tuberculosis & Vampires (00:00:00)

2. Tuberculosis and Women's Beauty Standards (00:00:09)

3. TB's Influence on Women's Fashion (00:07:34)

4. Evolution of TB Romanticization and Vampires (00:14:24)

5. Evolution of Vampire Lore and Porphyria (00:20:39)

6. Engaging With Infectious Science Podcast (00:32:11)