I have to agree with a few other’s posts that mythology is definitely not my favorite topic. But in any case, inevitably I couldn’t help but refer back to Greek mythology, particularly the Greek god Adonis.
In Greek mythology, the god Adonis was known to be the most beautiful of young men. With his deftly masculine physique and perfectly chiseled frame, Adonis is a perfect representation (or perhaps misrepresentation?) of man.
Men aspire to be him; women aspire to be with him.
Although body image issues concern mainly the female population, an increasing number of men are finding themselves affected by the social pressures our media perpetuates, such as the necessities of rock hard abs and bulging biceps. This ideal is so apparent especially in Western culture. With magazine covers, infomercials, and advertisements all perpetuating the same myth, it’s hard not to get caught up with all the hype.
The Adonis Complex, named after the god himself, is a “collection of male body image problems that can include compulsive weightlifting and exercising, steroid abuse, eating disorders, and full-blown body dysmorphic disorder.” Children’s toys and action figures such as Ken and GI Joe only further this myth of a body that is often times unnatural and unattainable without the help of fad diets, airbrushing and other enhancements.
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