Re: sexual dimorphism( was: So-called Alternative Lifestyles)

On Mon, 13 Sep 2004 11:45:10 +0100, Chris Bates
<chris.maths_student@...> wrote:

> >
> This seems to be a common feature of elves in books: every author either
> describes them all as feminine or androgynous (and tall and thin and
> fair-haired also generally). What are the roots of this preconception?
> Are they based in the mythology of some culture, or are they from
> Tolkien, or some other author...?
Well, in Philippine folk mythology, the elves look just like regular
people, but range through a wide variety of heights, from inches high
to a little taller than most Filipinos. They are often fair skinned,
with yellow to brown hair. Many have "sharp eyes" (which i think means
the corners come to a point rather than rounded). A few of them have
gold teeth. Some, when a human marries them will turn dark and ugly.
They also often whistle to people to communicate.

The dwarves on the other hand are all very much the same, short, old
men, with big hands, and feet, exaggerated features. They live in the
earth and can give gifts, but often they own the fields and are
placated before a farmer would till his field.



--
Something gets lost when you translate,
It's hard to keep straight, perspective is everything

- Invisible ink - Aimee Mann -