Fu Manchu moustache

The Face of Fu Manchu

Fu Manchu moustache refers to a distinctive style of facial hair that is characterized by long, downward-pointing ends which are generally grown from the upper lip. The style is named after Fu Manchu, a fictional character created by British author Sax Rohmer in the early 20th century. Fu Manchu is depicted as a villainous mastermind, and his distinctive moustache has become a stereotypical symbol of villainy in Western culture. The Fu Manchu moustache is often associated with the imagery of the "Yellow Peril" stereotype that was prevalent in the early 20th century, which portrayed East Asians as a threat to the Western world.

Characteristics

The Fu Manchu moustache is characterized by its long, thin, downward extensions from the corners of the upper lip. These extensions can reach down to the chin or even below it. Unlike the handlebar moustache, which is also grown from the upper lip but is styled upwards, the Fu Manchu hangs down past the jawline. The middle part of the upper lip is typically shaved, allowing the focus to be on the lengthy sides.

Cultural Significance

The Fu Manchu moustache carries with it a cultural baggage due to its origins and use in popular media. It has been used in films, books, and cartoons to signify an exotic and often sinister foreignness, frequently reinforcing outdated and prejudiced stereotypes about Asian characters. In contemporary times, the moustache style is sometimes adopted in a more neutral or humorous context, but it remains deeply entwined with the character of Fu Manchu and the historical stereotypes associated with him.

Controversy

The use of the Fu Manchu moustache in media and popular culture has been criticized for perpetuating racial stereotypes. It is seen by some as an example of Yellowface, where characteristics associated with East Asians are exaggerated or mocked. The style's association with a character who embodies the "evil genius" stereotype has also been a point of contention, as it contributes to a monolithic and negative portrayal of Asian characters in Western media.

In Popular Culture

The Fu Manchu moustache has appeared in various forms of media, from films to comic books, often used to give characters a distinctive or villainous appearance. While its popularity has waned, it remains a recognizable symbol of the character Fu Manchu and the era in which he was created.

See Also

• Moustache styles
• Sax Rohmer
• Stereotypes of East Asians in the United States
• Yellowface