Large eyes were admired in Greece, where they still…
“Large eyes were admired in Greece, where they still prevail. They are the finest of all when they have the internal look, which is not common. The stag or antelope eye of the Orientals is beautiful and lamping, but is accused of looking skittish and indifferent. "The epithet of 'stag-eyed,'" says Lady Wortley Montgu, speaking of a Turkish love-song, "pleases me extremely; and I think it a very lively image of the fire and indifference in his mistress' eye.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Greek admiration for large eyes reflects a cultural ideal of expressive, lively gazes, contrasting with Oriental eyes described as skittish and indifferent.
In simple terms: Cultural ideals of eye expression differ.
Key Takeaway
Recognize cultural symbols in perception.
Themes
a
expression
beauty
culture
perception
Mood
analytical
contemplative
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- art criticism
- fashion design
- personal grooming
- cultural studies
- literary analysis
Key Concepts
symbolism
aesthetic standards
cross-cultural comparison
Questions to Reflect On
- How do cultural standards shape beauty ideals?
- What does an 'internal look' convey about character?
A Different Perspective
Generalizations may oversimplify diverse regional traits.