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Satire on Phrenology
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Satire on Phrenology
Satire on the study of Phrenology - a Free Knowledgey - illustrating the worst elements of human behavious illustrated in different zones of the head (including Obscene Language, criminal activity, a jail sentence) as The Bumps at Birth (and the Bumps acquired after, through marriage and otherwise). Date: 1910s
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Media ID 7187115
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10528270
Activity Behaviour Brain Bump Bumps Cranial Cranium Criminal Elements Examination Experience Experiences Free Language Perils Phrenological Phrenology Satire Thoughts Huma Obscene
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This satirical print from the 1910s pokes fun at the popular yet controversial field of phrenology, a pseudoscientific study that purported to determine a person's character and abilities based on the shape and size of their skull. The image, titled "Satire on the Study of Phrenology - A Free Knowledgey," showcases various elements of human behavior, both good and bad, represented by distinct bumps on the cranium. The illustration is a profile view of a man's head, with exaggerated features and labels indicating the supposed locations of different character traits. The "Obscene Language" bump is prominently displayed near the mouth, while the "Criminal Activity" zone is located around the temples. The "Jail Sentence" bump is shown as a large, ominous lump at the back of the head. The print also highlights the "Bumps at Birth" and the "Bumps Acquired After," suggesting that some traits are innate while others are acquired through experience. The "Marriage" bump is shown as a large, heart-shaped formation, while the "Divorce" bump is a smaller, broken heart. The overall tone of the print is humorous, using exaggerated and often absurd representations of the phrenological concepts to poke fun at the study's claims. The title, "A Free Knowledgey," adds an element of self-deprecation, acknowledging the ridiculousness of the idea that one's character can be determined by the shape of their skull. Despite its satirical nature, the print reflects the pervasive fascination with phrenology during this period and the widespread belief in its validity. It serves as a reminder of the importance of questioning scientific claims and the potential dangers of oversimplifying complex human behaviors and traits.
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