Physiognomy is a science of the relationship between personality traits and physical features that has a very long history. It evolved in ancient times as an integral part of classical philosophy. Homer as well as Hippocrates made allusions to physiognomy in their works, showing its foundational nature in early thought.
The systematic study of physiognomy began with Aristotle, who explored how color, hair, body shape, and gait related to character. Juvenal, Suetonius, and Pliny the Elder were among the Latin authors who also recognized this practice in classical literature.
During the medieval period, physiognomy incorporated predictive and astrological aspects. This era saw the birth of texts combining physiognomy with prophetic folklore and magic. Arabian representatives like Ar-Razi and Averroës persisted in developing this field, while Avicenna was able to contribute significant insights.
Physiognomy refers not only to description but also to divination through astrology. In this regard, it aimed at connecting physical characteristics with psychological traits; even similar practices could be observed in astrological tables as well as other types of fortune-telling such as graphology or palmistry.
The eighteenth and nineteenth centuries became famous for controversial cases when criminal tendencies were disclosed through physiognomy, although these uses came under criticism due to prejudiced attitudes and inaccuracies in them all. The study of skull shapes, called phrenology, done during the nineteenth century represented a time when society had a great fascination with linking physical traits to mental ones.
There have been several momentous developments throughout the 20th century. Dr. Edward Vincent Jones focused on this subject matter through his study based on courtroom interactions, which resulted in “personology” relying on physical appearance (Jones). His research laid the foundation for future examinations concerning facial expressions and personalities.
Psychologist Paul Ekman’s work during the 1960s marked a turning point when he established that facial expressions are universal and have to do with evolution. Ekman’s findings emphasized the significance of the face as a tool for understanding emotions and personality.
Nowadays, physiognomy is widely learned in many colleges. The current approaches marry historical knowledge with psychological insights, hence providing an inclusive comprehension of how personal characteristics interrelate with physical traits.