Go Away Baldy: Male Pattern Baldness in Ancient Egypt and the Near East

This document explores male pattern baldness in ancient Egypt and the Near East through an interdisciplinary and biblical feminist lens. It highlights that baldness was recognized in Ancient Egypt, as evidenced by the Ebers Papyrus and tomb scenes of aging, balding laborers. The study dismisses any link between baldness and leprosy, focusing instead on age, sex, and class in cultural narratives. It examines stories like the prophet Elisha being mocked for baldness and balding workers in Deir el-Medina being teased by young women. The research suggests that ancient views on baldness were complex, involving mockery for unattractiveness but also respect for the work ethic and masculinity of older men.