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How FAT Turned Negative
Culture, media, and opinions of “experts” have an effect on changing perceptions, feelings, and attitude of the masses.
And a single word can carry multiple meanings, connotations, and emotions. “Fat” is one of those words that is controversial at times.
The history of “fat” is surprising as it had a positive meaning back then before it became a weapon in the 20th century.
This adjective has undergone a remarkable transformation, shifting from a symbol of prosperity to a hurtful and stigmatizing label. Let’s dive deep into how that shift happened and stay till the end for a motivational boost. ❤
History of FAT.
Let’s define “fat,” shall we?
fat (adjective)
The first two definitions that come up on Merriam-Webster is “notable for having an unusual amount of fat” and “having excessive body fat.”
But what’s the perception of “fat?”
In history, fat has been a positive word since being fat was associated with wealth and prosperity. It’s because in times when food scarcity was a genuine concern, having excess body fat was a sign of abundance and luxury.
It would even be associated with higher social class, mastery of some kind, achievements, or a sign of being in the ruling class.
Especially in Renaissance and some old Greek and Turkic sculptures, beautiful women were portrayed as having excessive body fat.
I remember from my elective class “Art History” back in college, our teacher would constantly talk about the Venus figurines. These are the oldest art sculptures of humans that we know of, which showcase overweight women.
In medieval times, mostly men had to work on being in shape and slim, while extra fat on women was considered beautiful, sometimes even more fertile.
In most cultures, Goddesses were portrayed as having extra weight. In the Italian Renaissance times…
