Function and Service of the Body

No part of his body served more than his buttocks. Indeed, if one pays attention, it must be acknowledged that sitting without fleshy buttocks would be uncomfortable. This becomes evident when someone is emaciated from a long illness, having only skin over bones. Well-muscled buttocks suit a strong man. Women tend to have fatty, fleshy, and round buttocks. Those with dry or withered buttocks are often spiteful people and pranksters. Apes mostly have shriveled hindquarters. Along the buttocks and thighs come down to the calves and heels, which also deserve a minor remark. How the calves are shaped on human legs will be discussed later in our study of muscles. It is said that people with very thick calves, or who were pregnant, are shameless and unpleasant individuals. Those moderately drawn together and well-defined from muscles are considered strong people. However, those that are round and full of flesh are seen as overly feminine. The heels deserve little remark unless it is to note that thick-heeled individuals are generally clumsy people or unpleasant fools. Mockingly and occasionally, it is said of women, that if they fall off the porch lightly, they are short on heels. Walking with flat heels, it is said, is when one finds it difficult like a horse worn out running ahead of the dogs.

Pen: The Back.

Regarding the shape and beauty of the back, it suits neither woman nor man, and primarily...

Translation Notes

1. "Maaxel en Dienst der" is translated as "Function and Service of the Body" capturing the essence of the original phrase.

2. "Vleeschige" and "Gehielde" refer to fleshy and thick, respectively, in describing body parts.

3. "Droege of verdorde Billen" translates to "dry or withered buttocks", referring to a physical and personality trait.

4. "Vrouwvolkje" is an old term for women, used here in a somewhat mocking context.