Throughout history, beauty and ugliness have been defined by societal norms, but the concept of being labeled the “ugliest person in the world” brings forth complicated questions about human perception, body image, and the treatment of those who look different. This article explores how people like Mary Ann Bevan and Lizzie Velásquez, who have been subjected to such labels, transformed these cruel experiences into platforms for advocacy, highlighting the shifting definitions of ugliness across time and cultures.
The Story of Mary Ann Bevan
One of the most famous individuals to be dubbed the “ugliest person” was Mary Ann Bevan, a British woman who lived in the early 20th century. Bevan’s life took a tragic turn when she developed acromegaly, a rare condition caused by excess growth hormone production, leading to abnormal growth of bones in her face, hands, and feet. Her once average appearance transformed drastically, making it difficult for her to maintain employment.
To support her children, Bevan entered a “Homeliest Woman” contest, which she won, and later worked in sideshows, where she was showcased as the “ugliest woman in the world.” Although her life was marked by exploitation, Bevan bore the ridicule with remarkable resilience, eventually earning enough to support her family and provide for her children’s education. Her story illustrates how physical differences were often monetized for entertainment in a society fascinated by the unusual, yet her perseverance highlighted the strength of character in the face of societal scorn.
Lizzie Velásquez and Modern-Day Bullying
In the digital age, Lizzie Velásquez became the subject of a viral YouTube video titled “The Ugliest Woman in the World” when she was just 17 years old. Velásquez was born with a rare genetic condition called Marfanoid–progeroid–lipodystrophy syndrome, which prevents her from gaining weight and affects her facial features. The video, filled with hurtful comments, became a catalyst for Velásquez to become a public speaker and anti-bullying advocate.
Rather than letting the label define her, Velásquez used the cruel experience to inspire others. She has spoken at numerous events, including TEDx, where she shared her journey of overcoming bullying and embracing kindness as a tool for change. Her story resonates in a world where online platforms allow for unprecedented levels of public scrutiny, often leading to harmful labeling and cyberbullying. Velásquez’s activism sheds light on the toxic nature of superficial beauty standards, encouraging people to redefine what beauty truly means.
Shifting Definitions of Ugliness in Society
The concept of ugliness has deep historical roots, often tied to notions of morality and inner worth. In ancient times, physical appearance was thought to reflect a person’s moral character, with ugliness associated with evil or disgrace. This belief persisted well into the Middle Ages and Renaissance, where those with physical deformities or disabilities were often ostracized or vilified in society. As empires expanded, foreign features and cultural artifacts were also labeled as “ugly” through a lens of colonial misunderstanding, further entrenching negative connotations.
By the 19th century, the rise of caricature and freak shows exploited physical differences for public entertainment. People like Bevan were displayed as “freaks,” capitalizing on society’s fascination with the grotesque. However, the 20th century saw shifts in these perceptions. Following the devastation of the World Wars, disfigured soldiers who survived traumatic injuries—known as les Gueules Cassées or “broken faces”—began to reclaim their dignity, challenging society’s harsh judgments on appearance.
Today, the concept of “ugliness” is slowly evolving, especially as more voices like Velásquez’s rise to challenge the standards of beauty. Modern movements encourage acceptance of diverse bodies, and the word “ugly” is often reclaimed by those seeking to dismantle harmful stereotypes.
Conclusion: Beyond the Surface
Both Mary Ann Bevan and Lizzie Velásquez illustrate the dangers of defining individuals by their physical appearance. While Bevan’s story reflects the societal norms of early 20th-century Europe, Velásquez’s experience highlights the modern-day challenges of internet culture and cyberbullying. In both cases, these women used their labels not as limits but as platforms to raise awareness about deeper issues like compassion, resilience, and self-acceptance.
The idea of the “ugliest person in the world” tells us more about society’s shifting standards and obsessions with appearance than it does about the individuals subjected to these cruel labels. As public consciousness grows, it is crucial to challenge superficial definitions of beauty and ugliness and to focus on inner strength and character as the true markers of human worth.