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Overgrowth in myth and art
Luigi Boccuto1,2, Giovanni Neri1,3
1JC Self Research Institute, Greenwood Genetic Center, Greenwood, South Carolina, USA.
Summary
Ancient myths and art depicted overgrowth as divine, while modern views labeled individuals as "freaks of nature." This evolution reflects changing sociocultural perceptions of genetic disorders and dysmorphic traits.
Area of Science:
- Medical Humanities
- Genetics
- Art History
Background:
- Individuals with overgrowth have historically been portrayed in myths and art.
- Cultural interpretations of overgrowth have shifted significantly over time.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the evolving sociocultural perceptions of overgrowth.
- To examine the representation of overgrowth in myth and art across different eras.
Main Methods:
- Historical analysis of myths and artworks depicting overgrowth.
- Sociocultural interpretation of symbolic meanings assigned to overgrowth.
Main Results:
- Early depictions associated overgrowth with divine or mythical beings (giants, titans).
- Later representations, particularly in more recent times, categorized individuals with overgrowth as 'freaks of nature' for entertainment.
Conclusions:
- The changing meanings of overgrowth in art and myth highlight societal attitudes towards dysmorphic traits and genetic disorders.
- Artistic and mythological representations offer insights into the historical sociocultural understanding of human variations.
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