Beaver: An Alphabet of Typical Specimens
Together with Notes and a Terminal Essay on the Manners and Customs of Beavering Men
"Beaver: An Alphabet of Typical Specimens" by John Kettelwell is a humorous and whimsical exploration of bearded men, written likely during the early 20th century. This book presents an unconventional classification of various types of beards through an alphabetical format, mixing parody and playful commentary. It serves as a satirical take on categorization, presenting beards not merely as facial hair but as specimens worthy of a collector’s interest. The book creatively describes different 'beaver' types, from the "Admiral-Beaver" to the "Zebra-King-Beaver," each accompanied by amusing descriptions and illustrations. Kettelwell also elaborates on the scoring system for these specimens akin to a game, and includes insights into the cultural significance of beards throughout history. The terminal essay provides a whimsical reflection on the "manners and customs" relating to these bearded individuals, emphasizing the absurdity and charm of the beardless society, while also highlighting the enduring fascination with facial hair across different eras.