Throughout history, men have always had a very complex relationship with their beards. Many men love them, some are not really that fond of beards and others are very particular about what goes and what does not, beardwise.
Regardless of how you look at it, everyone sees the beard as a symbol: for some, a symbol of wisdom, for others a sign of masculinity and for others, a sign of maturity.
Many people have thought of beards throughout history and have commented its cultural impact and personal significance.
Below, discover our collection of 10 great quotes about beards, from ancient times to modern day.
“A man with a beard was always a little suspect anyway. You couldn’t say you wore a beard because you liked a beard. People didn’t like you for telling the truth. You had to say you had a scar so you couldn’t shave.” – John Steinbeck, Cannery Row
“Barba non facit philosophum (A beard does not constitute a philosopher).” – Plutarch
“The abundance of beards in periods of social unrest, times of revolt or upheaval, should be noted. It’s the handiest way people have of making themselves mysterious.” – Mihail Sebastian, For Two Thousand Years
“There is always a period when a man with a beard shaves it off. This period does not last. He returns headlong to his beard.” – Jean Cocteau
“I have the terrible feeling that, because I am wearing a white beard and am sitting in the back of the theatre, you expect me to tell you the truth about something. These are the cheap seats, not Mount Sinai.” – Orson Welles
“A decent beard has long been the number one must-have fashion item for any fugitive from justice.” – Craig Brown
“When I was a kid, I had this idea that I would have a beard when I got older. I thought it’d be nice to rub my chin.” – Rosario Dawson
“Growing up, the way that I looked was very important to me. I was always trying to impress people, and when I grew my beard there was a certain freedom, a separation, getting past this the way I looked, identify myself as a spiritual seeker.” – Matisyahu
“I see the beard and cloak, but I don’t yet see a philosopher.” – Aulus Gellius
“Do not mistake a goat’s beard for a fine stallion’s tail.” – Irish Proverb
Beards are definitely an important part of male grooming and style. In the end, most guys can’t really escape them. It’s great that everyone has a strong opinion about beards and we’re on the way of making our own.
Quotes are always great food for thought, which is why we love quotes collections, even if they are about something as simple as the male beard.
Fraquoh and Franchomme
Further reading:
Caring for your beard: A three-step guide
The Movember movement: 10 facts
What you need to know before growing a mustache
Growing a beard: The complete guide
The undercut and beard combination done right
20 inspiring quotes about lifestyle
15 Great Quotes about Attitude
A great collection of menswear quotes
P.S. How do you connect to these quotes? Which one is your favorite? What quote do you know about beards? Share your feedback, questions or thoughts in the comments below! For more articles on style, fashion tips and cultural insights, you can subscribe to Attire Club via e-mail or follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram!