Muscles, Symmetry and Action: ‘Do You Measure Up?' Defining Masculinity in Britain and America from the 1860s to the Early 1900s

Bulging biceps and rock-hard abs are displayed on the covers of magazines that line newsstands in airports and on street corners. Muscular males — and females — engaged in strength and fitness exercises confront late-night television viewers. Similar images advertise equipment in an array of publications. Today the insistent message, whether directly stated or by implication, is ‘do you measure up’? This is not the first time that it has been heard.