Hair: Its Power and Meaning in Asian Cultures

Exploring the multifaceted meanings of hair in Asian cultures, the book delves into its significance as a symbol of identity, beauty, and social status across various contexts. Contributors analyze a range of evidence—from literary and archaeological to religious and ethnographic—addressing themes such as hair codes, community norms, and the interplay of privilege and rebellion. The work highlights diverse interpretations of hair, including its associations with femininity, virility, and societal constructs, revealing how hair communicates complex cultural narratives.