Masks Across Cultures: Unveiling the Hidden Meanings

Historians Bruno J. Strasser and Thomas Schlich have co-authored a book titled "The Mask," which explores the multifaceted significance of masks across various cultures and historical periods. The book, published by Yale University Press in 2025, delves into the symbolic meanings of masks, from ancient Greece to present-day urban environments, and examines their role in conveying emotions, community, and identity. According to Strasser and Schlich, masks have been imbued with a range of emotions, including hope and despair, courage and cowardice, and a sense of community and selfishness. Their discussions cover theatrical performances in ancient Greece, plagues and gas attacks in the First World War, and present-day urban smog and surgery, while addressing the crucial issue of mask efficacy. "Masks have been a universal language, conveying emotions and ideas across cultures and time," said Strasser in an interview. "Our book aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the complex meanings behind masks." The authors' research spans various disciplines, including history, anthropology, and medicine. Schlich, a former physician, brings a unique perspective to the book, highlighting the importance of masks in medical contexts, such as surgery and public health. Strasser, a historian, provides a broader cultural context, exploring the use of masks in ancient civilizations and their symbolic meanings in art and literature. In another book, "The Maya Myths," anthropologist Mallory E. Matsumoto explores the ancient Maya hieroglyphs and their deciphering. Published by Thames Hudson in 2025, the book delves into the logical structure of the Maya calendar, which accurately predicted astronomical phenomena such as eclipses. Matsumoto's research also examines the Mayas' preoccupation with the natural world and their beliefs, which included human sacrifice. Matsumoto notes that about one-third of the 1,000 distinct hieroglyphs remain to be deciphered, highlighting the complexity and richness of Maya mythology. "The Maya calendar is a testament to the advanced knowledge of astronomy and mathematics of the ancient Maya," said Matsumoto in an interview. "However, their beliefs and practices, including human sacrifice, are a reminder of the complexities and nuances of human culture." The publication of these books coincides with ongoing research in the field of anthropology and history. Scholars continue to study the use of masks and hieroglyphs in various cultures, shedding light on the complex meanings and symbolism behind these artifacts. As Strasser and Schlich's book demonstrates, masks have played a significant role in human culture, conveying emotions, ideas, and identity across time and space. The current status of these books is that they are available for purchase and have received positive reviews from scholars and readers alike. As research in anthropology and history continues to evolve, these books provide a valuable contribution to our understanding of human culture and the significance of masks and hieroglyphs.