The Beauty Myth

Why does Wolf argue that women themselves often subscribe to and perpetuate the beauty myth? Can women avoid doing this, and, if so, how?

The author primarily links the dissemination of the beauty myth to consumer advertising and mass culture. Do you believe that she goes far enough in her criticism of capitalism as the modern source of this concept?

Describe first, second-, and third-wave feminism, and their respective historic roots, successes, and challenges. What is the relationship between these waves of feminism, and how do they inform each other?

The author argues that the real enemy of women is not aging, as the beauty myth suggests, but institutional discrimination. Examine at least three examples of institutional discrimination presented in this book. Have they been solved in the 21st century?

Wolf believes that the “new religion” of beauty is directly based on the patriarchal aspects of historic faiths such as Christianity. Do you agree with her assessment? Use at least four examples from the text to back up your argument.

Why did Wolf choose to name her chapter on cosmetic surgery “Violence”? Has she been accurate in her predictions about the direction of this industry in the 21st century as it disseminates the beauty myth?

What does Wolf call the “Iron Maiden”? What is the relationship between this historic torture device and the beauty myth?

In the book's final chapter, Wolf offers several constructive solutions to challenge the beauty myth and foster female solidarity. What suggestions does she provide, and what else could be done?